Balloon Sinuplasty 101

What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon Sinuplasty is a simple in-office procedure that was developed in order to relieve symptoms of nasal congestion, nasal obstruction, chronic and recurrent sinus infection, sinus headaches, facial pressure, and other symptoms of the nose and sinuses. Balloon Sinuplasty has been around for more than a decade with proven long-lasting results.

This procedure can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, without the need for general anesthesia or a trip to the operating room, with minimal discomfort and very short downtime.

The results are noted by the patients sometimes after just a few days but most commonly after the first week.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The Balloon Sinuplasty is performed in our office using just local anesthesia. The patient typically spends about 90 minutes in our office. Most of that time is used to numb up the area with cotton in the nose. Normally the patient will take a light sedative. The procedure itself takes between 20-30 minutes to complete and the patient goes straight home with all the instructions needed.

What are the Benefits?

• Lower risk of bleeding
• Much faster recovery time
• Minimally invasive
• Fewer postoperative appointments are required
• Reduced need for the use of pain medications
• Reduced risk of scarring and continued inflammation
• In-office; no need for general anesthesia or going to the O.R.

Most of the time this procedure is covered under a simple in-office copay. Once you decide to move forward with the procedure, we will contact your insurance company for exact details.

What is Recovery Like?

Most patients take a day or two to recover or have the procedure done close to the weekend to recover during that time. Most patients return to their normal daily activities after 2-3 days.

If you are interested in Balloon Sinuplasty, speak with Dr. Lapco and he will examine your medical history and help determine which sinus treatment options are best for you.