What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

The sinuses are air-filled cavities located behind the forehead, nose, and cheeks. Many people suffer from chronic sinus pain or pressure, as well as recurrent sinus infections.  Balloon sinuplasty uses a small, flexible balloon catheter (a soft catheter with an inflatable “balloon” at the tip) to open sinus passageways that are blocked. The balloon catheter also helps to drain built-up mucous. As the balloon catheter inflates, it widens the walls of the sinus passageway without damaging the sinus lining. 

Key Benefits of a Balloon Sinuplasty

  • Unlike medications that just treat the symptoms, balloon sinuplasty could permanently address the cause of the problem 
  • Balloon sinuplasty requires no cutting and no removal of bone or tissue
  • No general anesthesia needed
  • Faster recovery time than traditional sinuplasty
  • After the procedure, patients report that they can breathe better, have fewer sinus infections, and have less sinus pressure and drainage 
  • Up to 95% of patients report a significant improvement

Who Gets a Balloon Sinuplasty? 

If you’re in the Upper East Side area and you’re interested in a balloon sinuplasty, you could be the ideal candidate. This procedure is an excellent option for those who: 

  • Are experiencing chronic sinusitis or recurrent sinus infections
  • Have symptoms that have not improved for more than three months
  • Have tried nasal sprays, antibiotics, allergy meds, and antihistamines with no luck
  • Do not have an underlying structural issue such as nasal polyps or a severely deviated septum

Close-up of the sinuses

Balloon Sinuplasty FESS Animation

“Great bedside manner and solved my issue on the first visit. I would definitely recommend.” 

Michael L.

Recovery

After your balloon sinuplasty, you can expect to feel sore for a couple of days, and possibly congested for about one week.

Directly after your procedure, your throat may feel strange and your voice may sound different due to the numbing agent. This will wear off in 2-3 hours.

Post-operative oozing, red drainage, and bleeding may occur for up to three days, and many patients choose to use gauze during this time.

If you have excessive bleeding, please contact us immediately. 

To minimize nasal congestion, we recommend sleeping with your head elevated by a couple of pillows. Blowing your nose should be completely avoided for two weeks, as should any strenuous activity. (Taking walks is fine.) Over the following month after your balloon sinuplasty, you should notice improvement. 

Doctor media

Balloon Sinuplasty with Dr. Reitzen

We understand that you want to feel better — to regain function and to breathe better. This is why Dr. Shari Reitzen works together with you to find a solution. With her balloon sinuplasty procedure, she has helped countless patients who weren’t seeing success with medications. As a double board-certified reconstructive/plastic surgeon and ENT, Dr. Reitzen has the experience and skill you need to feel confident that you’re in good hands. We believe that you should be able to breathe without issue, and we invite you to contact us to book a consultation if you’re in the Upper East Side area with sinus issues. Dr. Reitzen will get to the bottom of your problem.

FAQ

Are results from a balloon sinuplasty permanent?

Is the “balloon” on the tip of the catheter made of rubber or latex, like a real balloon?

Is a balloon sinuplasty covered by insurance?

Are results from a balloon sinuplasty permanent?

In most cases, yes. A balloon sinuplasty is typically permanent, but some patients may have more severe symptoms or conditions that require a repeat procedure.

Is the “balloon” on the tip of the catheter made of rubber or latex, like a real balloon?

No, the “balloon” is made from high-strength, latex-free plastic.

Is a balloon sinuplasty covered by insurance?

Most insurance covers a balloon sinuplasty; however, you should contact your health insurance company to double-check. We will assist you in this process.

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