How to Recover from Balloon Sinus Surgery

Balloon sinus surgery, otherwise known as balloon sinuplasty or balloon catheter dilation surgery, is a medical procedure used to clear blocked sinuses. It involves the utilization of small balloon catheters to open to drain the large nasal sinuses. This procedure is the typical treatment for issues of extreme sinus inflammation or rhinosinusitis and blockage in the nose. The method is used after all other treatment options have been exhausted.

How does the procedure work?

Balloon sinus surgery is used to dilate the openings of either some or all of the three major nasal sinuses in order to make them possible to drain and clear. Usually, most people that require this surgery usually have a condition that causes the membranes to become inflamed. This leads to congestion, as the pus, discharge and mucus are unable to drain. After a period, these inflamed or blocked nasal passages can lead to difficulties in breathing. It can also come with other symptoms such as insomnia, jaw ache, as well as headache.

The procedure is performed in a hospital by an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), and can be performed under either general or local anesthesia.

Side effects

Balloon sinus surgery comes with some minor side effects, just like any other medical procedure.

First, there could be bleeding or bloody drainage that could last for a couple of days and could be accompanied by tenderness in the forehead, cheek and nasal area. There could also be minor swelling in the nasal passages and cavities as well as the surrounding facial area and can be accompanied by congestion. And when there is a failure to cleanse the sinuses properly after the surgery is done, there can be a possibility of an infection.

Recovery

After a balloon sinus surgery, most people are able to return to their normal daily activities after a couple of days. Indeed, some patients can even drive themselves home after the surgery.

However, the following week may come with some nasal discharge, which is normal. The recovery period may also come with fatigue. These symptoms should clear within five days to a week. But the fastest road to recovery is to follow all the directions given by your doctor. For example, you shouldn’t blow your nose for at least the first 24 hours after the surgery.

It is very important to stay away from any form of strenuous activity as these can increase your heart rate during the first week after the surgery. It is also recommended to sleep well with your head elevated. Doing this will help to relieve any discomfort from the drainage.

Aftercare

Take all prescribed medications promptly and for their entire duration. Be sure to speak to your doctor before purchasing any form of over-the-counter medication. Also, you will be prescribed a saline solution. This should be used to rinse your nasal passages for up to a week after your surgery.