When sinusitis doesn’t get better with medications and other treatment methods, patients might want to consider surgery on the sinuses. Balloon Sinuplasty involves opening the nasal passages to let mucus drain instead of building up. Patients with chronic sinus problems can have Balloon Sinuplasty done at Tustin Ear, Nose & Throat, Sinus and Allergy Center. Dr. Charles Oh offers this type of procedure for patients in Tustin and Los Alamitos, California.

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What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive sinus procedure for those who suffer from chronic sinusitis. It offers multiple advantages over traditional sinus surgery, such as a shorter recovery time and a lower risk of surgical complications, such as bleeding. Balloon Sinuplasty is an in-office procedure that’s usually done using local anesthesia rather than general anesthesia.

How does Balloon Sinuplasty Work?

Balloon Sinuplasty involves inserting a small balloon catheter into the affected sinus. Dr. Oh inflates the balloon inside the sinus to open it up and allow mucus to drain. After the sinus opens for drainage, Dr. Oh deflates and removes the balloon. Dr. Oh performs this process for each affected sinus to relieve chronic sinusitis symptoms and lower the risk of having this condition recur.

What Can Patients Expect from Balloon Sinuplasty?

Patients shouldn’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure since Dr. Oh uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. With Balloon Sinuplasty, Dr. Oh doesn’t need to pack patients’ noses, which is a common practice with traditional surgery. After the procedure, patients might have bloody discharge from the nose and a sinus headache. These are temporary effects of Balloon Sinuplasty. Patients can usually go back to their regular activities the day after their procedure. Dr. Oh explains each step of the process in detail, so patients will know what to expect.

Is Balloon Sinuplasty Safe?

Balloon Sinuplasty is considered a secure and efficient procedure for opening nasal passages. There are certain risks associated with this procedure, although they’re rare. These include eye injury, brain injury, infection, and tissue damage. Dr. Oh takes steps to reduce these risks and ensure a safe procedure. Having Balloon Sinuplasty done doesn’t limit treatment options if chronic sinusitis ends up recurring. However, the revision rates for this procedure are small.

How Long Do the Results Last?

The results of Balloon Sinuplasty usually last for an extended period. If nasal passages become blocked again, Dr. Oh can repeat this procedure if needed. Balloon Sinuplasty results typically last longer than the results of traditional sinus surgery.

To learn more about Balloon Sinuplasty, please contact Tustin Ear, Nose & Throat, Sinus and Allergy Center.