Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center of Fredericksburg is here for you with convenient locations in Fredericksburg, VA, and Stafford, VA. If you are suffering from chronic sinusitis, then balloon sinuplasty is a procedure designed to relieve your symptoms. Keep reading to learn more about this procedure and contact us if you think you could benefit from a balloon sinuplasty.
What is a balloon sinuplasty?
This procedure uses a similar method to an angioplasty using balloons to open blocked arteries, only the balloon is being used to open blocked sinuses.
How does a balloon sinuplasty work?
During a balloon sinuplasty in Fredericksburg, VA, a catheter with a balloon on the end is inserted into the nose to reach the blocked sinus cavity and then is gently inflated. The inflation expands the sinus cavity, and fluid is used to flush out the mucus and blockages. Once the cavity is cleared, the device is removed.
Your nasal discharge may be tainted with blood directly following the procedure but should return to normal within a day. You should avoid blowing your nose for the first 24 hours and sleep with your head elevated for at least a week following the procedure to prevent drainage from pooling in the nasal cavity.
What are the benefits?
A balloon sinuplasty is lower risk and less invasive than traditional sinus surgery, and allows most patients to return to normal activities within a couple of days.
Do I need a balloon sinuplasty?
Ballon sinuplasties are typically only recommended if other measures haven't improved your symptoms. Many patients can find some relief from medications, but if you have tried these and symptoms persist, talk to your ENT. Along with prolonged congestion other symptoms of chronic sinusitis can include:
- Headaches
- Thick or discolored drainage
- Facial pressure
- Ear pressure
- Decreased sense of smell or taste
- Fever
- Cough
- Bad breath
- Fatigue
If these symptoms occur for eight weeks or longer and you haven't found relief from medications, you may be a candidate for a balloon sinuplasty. When you need a balloon sinuplasty in Fredericksburg, VA, Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center of Fredericksburg is here to help. Contact us for an appointment at our locations in Fredericksburg, VA, Stafford, VA, and our Spotsylvania location in Fredericksburg, VA at (540) 371-1226.