Balloon Sinuplasty is a revolutionary procedure that has revolutionized the way sinusitis is treated. This minimally invasive procedure uses a balloon catheter to open blocked sinus passages, allowing for improved airflow and relief from sinus pressure and pain. While Balloon Sinuplasty offers many benefits, it also carries some risks that should be considered before undergoing the procedure. In this article, we will explore the benefits and risks of using Balloon Sinuplasty as a treatment for sinusitis.
What is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a medical procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis, a condition characterized by inflamed and blocked sinuses. It involves the use of a balloon catheter to widen the sinus passages and improve the drainage of mucus. This procedure is less invasive than traditional sinus surgery and has a shorter healing time.




Risks Associated with Balloon Sinuplasty
Endoscopic sinus surgery is a procedure that can be used to treat chronic sinusitis. This procedure involves the use of an endoscope, which is inserted through the nasal passages and into the sinus cavity. The endoscope allows the surgeon to view the area and remove any blockages or tissue that may be causing inflammation. While this procedure has many benefits, it also carries some risks such as bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding tissue. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their doctor before undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery.
The risks associated with this procedure may include:
- Bleeding: As with any medical procedure, there is a risk of bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Infection: There is also a risk of infection, although this risk is low.
- Damage to surrounding tissues: The balloon catheter used in the procedure could potentially damage the surrounding tissues or cause bleeding.
- Recurrence of symptoms: In some cases, symptoms of chronic sinusitis may return after the procedure.
- Scarring: In some cases, scar tissue may form in the area where the balloon catheter was inserted, leading to further blockage and inflammation of the sinuses.
It is important to discuss the risks of balloon sinuplasty with a healthcare provider before deciding if this procedure is right for you. They can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks and determine if balloon sinuplasty is an appropriate treatment option.

Follow-up Care After a Balloon Sinuplasty
Chronic sinus infections can be a difficult condition to manage, but balloon sinuplasty may offer relief. This minimally invasive procedure is safe and effective, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days. It can significantly improve symptoms of chronic sinusitis such as nasal congestion, headaches, and difficulty breathing. Although there are some risks associated with the procedure, these are generally low and can be discussed with a healthcare provider before deciding if balloon sinuplasty is right for you. Follow-up care after the procedure is also important in order to ensure that symptoms do not recur.
- Monitor your symptoms: After a balloon sinuplasty, it is important to monitor your symptoms and report any changes to your healthcare provider.
- Take medications as prescribed: Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help reduce inflammation and improve healing after the procedure. It is important to take these medications as directed.
- Avoid strenuous activities: To reduce the risk of complications, it is important to avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
- Follow up with your healthcare provider: It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider after the procedure in order to ensure that you are healing properly and that there are no complications from the procedure.
Insurance and Balloon Sinuplasty
Insurance coverage for balloon sinuplasty can vary among companies. Each insurer has its own set of criteria for determining whether the procedure is medically necessary for a particular patient. In order to improve the chances of getting the procedure approved by your insurance company, our office follows a thorough process. We first perform a CT scan and exhaust all medical treatment options with medications before recommending a procedural option. While most insurance companies will approve coverage for the procedure, some smaller insurers may still consider balloon sinuplasty “experimental or investigational” and deny coverage.
If your insurance company denies coverage for balloon sinuplasty, our office has processes in place to try and overturn the denial decision through a physician peer review or appeal. We will work with you to explore all available options and try to help you get the treatment you need.
How to Reduce the Risk of Complications
In order to reduce the risk of complications from balloon sinuplasty, it is important to follow all pre- and post-operative instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This includes avoiding strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after the procedure, taking any medications prescribed, and following up with your healthcare provider as instructed. Additionally, you should also follow a healthy lifestyle to maintain good overall health and reduce the risk of developing chronic sinusitis or other medical conditions.
Taking the next steps
Sinusitis can be a debilitating condition, but fortunately, there are now effective treatment options available. At Becker ENT & Allergy, we offer a state-of-the-art procedure to help alleviate your sinusitis symptoms and improve your quality of life. Our skilled and experienced team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to each and every one of our patients. If you are suffering from sinusitis and are looking for relief, we highly recommend considering this procedure at Becker ENT & Allergy. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your consultation.