Your sinuses are the inner cavity in your head that sit behind your eyes, nose, and between your ears. When there is inflammation or stuffiness in this area, it can make it hard to breathe or sleep properly. Some people have painful sinus headaches and ear infections. If you have chronic sinusitis, you may need medical intervention from the Ear, Nose and Throat and Facial Plastic Surgery Center team in Fredericksburg, VA. To help you find relief, they can perform a balloon sinuplasty if it suits your sinus condition.

What Is Traditional Sinus Surgery Like?

 During functional endoscopic sinus surgery, your doctor inserts surgical tools into your nose along with an endoscope, which is a flexible tube with a light and a camera lens. This allows them to remove bone, diseased tissue, nasal polyps, or clogging fluids. It can also be done to correct structural issues that create blockages. Recovery will often take longer than a balloon sinuplasty. Patients getting this procedure are at greater risk for complications, due to operative procedures of cutting away tissue and bone. They must watch out for signs of infection or bleeding. However, this procedure is helpful for those who have severe blockages or sinus anatomical issues.

What Happens During a Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure?

 If you're struggling with sinus problems, a less invasive procedure is available in Fredericksburg, VA, thanks to the balloon sinuplasty. This operation requires local anesthesia and only takes about an hour. Your doctor inserts a small catheter with a balloon at the tip into your sinus passages. It expands the sinus cavity as it gently inflates. This action helps to improve drainage without physically removing bone or tissue. You'll experience easier breathing because of better airflow. Even after the doctors deflate the balloon, your signage passages will remain clear. 

As long as you don't have a severe structural abnormality in the sinus area, this procedure can provide effective relief.

The doctors at Ear, Nose and Throat and Facial Plastic Surgery Center in Fredericksburg, VA, have the specialized training to perform a balloon sinuplasty. To learn more about your sinus surgery options and schedule a consultation, call the team at 540-371-1226.