Balloon Sinuplasty

A Minimally Invasive Procedure For Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinus issues can be frustrating and even uncomfortable. When medications provide only temporary relief, we can help you find a more long-lasting solution. At Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates, we offer balloon sinuplasty, a minimally invasive procedure that can help open up blocked sinus passages using advanced technology. Our ENT specialists provide personalized care to determine if this procedure is a good fit for your condition so that you can enjoy a better quality of life.

Two women smiling together after balloon sinuplasty treatment for chronic sinus symptoms at atreus medical in seneca and piedmont, sc.

What Is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is an FDA-approved procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis and recurring sinus problems. It uses a small balloon catheter to gently expand blocked sinus openings, which then allows mucus to drain properly and improves airflow through the sinuses.

Unlike traditional sinus surgery, this minimally invasive treatment is performed on an outpatient basis in our office and does not involve removing bone or tissue. Instead, it reshapes and widens your natural sinus pathways while preserving your normal nasal anatomy. The result is typically less discomfort, faster recovery and a more lasting solution to chronic sinus symptoms.

Advanced Evaluation With In-Office Sinus CT Scanning

Before recommending treatment, the ear, nose and throat team at Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates performs a thorough evaluation to identify if you have chronic sinusitis. Just one of the advantages of choosing our speciality ENT practice is our in-office sinus CT scanner. This advanced imaging technology allows our team to clearly visualize your sinuses in exceptional detail all at a fraction of the radiation exposure of traditional CT Scanners. This can help Dr. Boxwell and our team identify inflammation and that may be contributing to your chronic sinus symptoms.

The Benefits Of In-Office Sinus CT Scanning

Unlike traditional hospital imaging appointments, in-office sinus CT scanning instantly provides us with important information about your anatomy and sinus condition. Because of this technology, we are able to create a more personalized treatment plan for your sinus care. As an independently-owned practice, we’re able to provide customized, advanced care for diagnosing and treating chronic sinusitis while putting you first.

How Does Balloon Sinuplasty Work?

We perform balloon sinuplasty in the office under local anesthesia, allowing patients to avoid the hospital and recover comfortably at home. This means you’ll be awake during the procedure, but you will feel only minimal discomfort.

During the procedure, a small balloon catheter is inserted into the blocked sinus passage. Once positioned, the balloon is gently inflated to widen the sinus opening and improve drainage. After the sinus pathway has been expanded, the balloon is removed, leaving the newly opened passage in place. The sinus can then drain more effectively, helping reduce inflammation and improve airflow.

Benefits Of Balloon Sinuplasty

The procedure offers significant benefits compared to traditional sinus surgery. By improving sinus drainage and addressing the underlying blockage through a minimally invasive approach, the process is more comfortable than other sinus surgeries. Other benefits include:

  • Performed in office for convenience
  • Faster recovery
  • Long-term symptom relief
  • Reduced dependence on medication
Smiling man outdoors after balloon sinuplasty treatment for chronic sinus symptoms at atreus medical in seneca and piedmont, sc.

What To Expect After Treatment

After your procedure, you should resume normal activities in just a day or two. You can expect some mild congestion, drainage or pressure as you heal, but overall recovery is much easier and faster than with traditional sinus surgery. Dr. Boxwell and our team will provide detailed post-procedure instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make sure you heal properly.

Am I A Candidate For Balloon Sinuplasty?

The best way to determine candidacy is through a comprehensive evaluation with our ENT team, including a review of your symptoms and in-office sinus CT imaging. You may be a candidate for this sinus treatment if you experience:

  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Frequent sinus infections
  • Ongoing sinus pressure
  • Persistent nasal congestion
  • Facial pain in your sinuses
  • No relief with medications

What Is Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation?

Eustachian tube balloon dilation uses a small balloon to help open and support the Eustachian tube, allowing it to better manage pressure and fluid within the middle ear. At Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates, this treatment is performed using the Audion® ET dilation system, a device designed to treat Eustachian tube dysfunction.

During the procedure, a small balloon is guided through the nose into the Eustachian tube and gently inflated to widen the passage. The balloon is then deflated and removed, with the goal of helping the Eustachian tube function more effectively and reducing symptoms such as ear pressure, fullness and muffled hearing. Dr. Boxwell and our team can determine whether Eustachian tube balloon dilation may be appropriate based on your symptoms and evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Balloon Sinuplasty

Our goal is to identify the source of your symptoms and help you find meaningful, lasting relief. If chronic sinus issues are affecting your sleep, work, exercise or quality of life, keep reading to see if this sinus procedure may be a solution.

How long does the procedure take?

Depending on the number of sinuses treated, patients can expect to be in the office between 1-2 hours total.

We do everything we can to keep you comfortable during the procedure, including using multilayered local anesthetic protocols.

Patients who receive this procedure experience significantly less downtime than traditional sinus surgery. Patients can return to normal activities within a few days.

Can balloon sinuplasty permanently cure my sinus problems?

Unfortunately, no sinus procedure can guarantee permanent results. However, long term studies have shown it is safe, effective, and can significantly reduce your sinus symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Our in-office sinus CT scanner allows us to accurately and precisely evaluate your sinus anatomy, identify blockages and plan your treatment.

Couple jogging outdoors together in a park

Personalized ENT, Pulmonary, Speech Pathology & Hearing Care Close To Home

Let’s start your healing journey.

Whether you are dealing with persistent breathing concerns, chronic cough, sinus symptoms, allergies, hearing changes, sleep apnea, voice concerns or swallowing difficulties, the Atreus Medical & Surgical Associates team is here to help. Our independently-owned practice provides advanced, personalized specialty medical care in Seneca and Powdersville, SC, with treatment plans built around your symptoms, health goals and everyday comfort. Request an appointment today for clearer answers and lasting relief.