Frequently Asked Questions:Balloon sinuplasty

What is balloon sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive office procedure. Unlike sinus medication, balloon sinuplasty gets to the root of the problem. It is designed to physically open the sinus cavity and clean out any infection.

Sinuplasty involves inserting a tiny catheter through the nose and into the infected sinus. Once inside, a small balloon is inflated which gently opens the blockage. The sinus is cleaned to flush out all possible infections. With a quick recovery, you can return to enjoy your daily activities free of sinus pain and pressure.

What is traditional sinus surgery?

Traditional sinus surgery is also known as endoscopic sinus surgery. This invasive procedure is typically done in a hospital or outpatient facility under general anesthesia. Sinus surgery involves cutting to remove tissue and bone and often requires an extended recovery period that may last for weeks or months.

Sinus surgery is irreversible and there are higher risks for surgical complications. Sinus surgery has been the traditional recommendation of physicians and surgeons. However, balloon sinuplasty provides many of the same benefits without the risk of surgery.

Does balloon sinuplasty work?

As of March 2017, more than 535,000 patients have enjoyed the lasting benefits of balloon sinuplasty. People are turning to sinuplasty because it is both safe and highly effective. Years of clinical research have proven that the benefits of sinuplasty are long-lasting and life-changing.

According to clinical research, the balloon sinuplasty success rate is greater than 95%. This astounding rate of success is driving more patients to find extended relief through balloon sinuplasty. This is why balloon treatment has become the gold standard for long-term sinus relief.

Is it safe?

Yes, because it does not involve cutting or removing tissue, balloon sinuplasty complications are very rare. Unlike traditional sinus surgery, there is minimal risk of infection, bleeding, or other side effects. Most procedures are done in the doctor’s office under local anesthesia which significantly reduces balloon sinuplasty risks.

Balloon sinuplasty recovery time is very quick and patients can typically return to all normal activities in 1 - 2 days as compared to the weeks or months of recovery from endoscopic sinus surgery. Traditional surgery also requires a doctor to tear off scabs to prevent scar tissue from blocking your airways. With sinuplasty, there is no cutting, bone removal, or scar tissue.

Is it FDA cleared?

Yes, balloon sinuplasty has been cleared by the FDA since 2005. With decades of experience and clinical data, this procedure is a safe alternative to traditional surgery.

Is this for me?

Dr. Capo will fully explore your specific diagnosis, explain all of your options, and allow you to make the most informed decision that works for you.

Contact us today and get started on the path to long-term sinus relief. Our professional staff is experienced in working with patients like you. Patients who need to experience relief from sinus pain and pressure. With balloon sinuplasty, we have successfully helped countless patients avoid surgery and regain the ability to live without the symptoms of sinus infections.

Is it covered by insurance or Medicare?

Insurance companies have discovered the overall benefit of balloon sinuplasty. Most insurance companies and Medicare will cover this procedure when it is medically necessary. You can contact your insurance provider to see if sinuplasty is covered.

Is balloon sinus treatment affordable?

The financial benefits of sinuplasty are very favorable for the patient. With sinuplasty, there is no hospitalization, no anesthesia, and no extended recovery period. Doctors, patients, and insurance companies have discovered the cost benefits of balloon sinus treatment. This modern solution improves patient health and reduces overall expenses.

Balloon sinus treatment lowers the overall cost by controlling expenses in a number of areas. The procedure is done in the doctor’s office which prevents expensive hospital fees and copays. There is no need for a costly anesthesiologist or the other additional medical professionals.

Patients are back to work quickly and are able to better meet the needs of their family, work, and community. They experience fewer missed days of work and have a significant increase in their overall quality of life.