Concerned about balloon sinuplasty hurting? No need to fret–many patients say it’s easier than expected. But, you're not alone in your concern. Feeling nervous about any procedure, especially one involving your sinuses is normal. While balloon sinuplasty is minimally invasive, setting realistic expectations about what you may feel during and after the procedure is important.

What happens during in-office balloon sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is an office-based procedure that opens blocked sinuses to improve airflow. At ADVENT, this treatment is usually completed in less than 20 minutes and your entire visit is about an hour. During your visit:

• Numbing agents and local anesthesia are applied to keep your nasal passages numb. You’ll stay awake throughout the procedure, and while some sensations are to be expected, the anesthesia ensures your nasal area is desensitized.
• A small, flexible tube with a balloon at the tip is carefully guided into your nasal passage. The balloon is positioned to target the blocked area.
• When inflated, the balloon widens your sinus passages by creating tiny micro-fractures in the thin bone around the sinus openings. This process restores airflow and allows for better drainage without the need for cutting or stitches.
• Once the balloon is deflated and removed, your sinuses are on their way to recovery.

This straightforward process is designed to address sinus blockages effectively. However, it’s important to note that relief and healing happen gradually as your sinuses adjust and inflammation resolves.

Is balloon sinuplasty painful?

Everybody experiences pain differently. However, pain is not a primary feature of balloon sinuplasty. What you'll most likely experience are certain sensations in your nose and sinuses. These may include:

• Pressure: Many patients describe a feeling of pressure in the nasal area, particularly as the balloon inflates. While tolerable, it can feel similar to sinus pressure during a cold.
• Sounds: You might hear crackling or crunching sounds as the balloon opens the sinus pathways. These sounds are harmless and result from the balloon gently reshaping the bony structures around your sinuses.
• Mild discomfort: Pain is relative, and we do everything we can to reduce or eliminate it. Some patients say they didn't feel a thing, while others say it was a bit more uncomfortable than they hoped for, but still manageable.

For added comfort, local anesthesia is used, and premedication is available if you feel especially anxious about the procedure. Open communication with your provider is key to making the process as smooth as possible.

Is recovery from balloon sinuplasty painful?

Recovery from balloon sinuplasty is generally manageable, but it’s not uncommon to experience some temporary discomfort or symptoms as your body heals. The recovery process is made easier because balloon sinuplasty involves no incisions, cutting, or bone removal.  However, everybody’s anatomy is different, so balloon sinuplasty recovery experiences can vary. While many patients resume light activities within a day or two, full recovery can take several weeks. You may notice:

• Temporary worsening of symptoms: Initially, your sinuses may feel more congested before they improve. This is due to normal post-procedure inflammation, which can peak in the first week.
• Head-cold sensation: It’s common to feel as though you have a head cold while your sinuses adjust. Swelling may persist for a few days or longer, depending on your anatomy and the extent of the procedure.
• Minor nosebleeds: Occasional nosebleeds may occur during the recovery period, but these typically resolve on their own.‍
• Manageable soreness: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help address any discomfort during recovery.

When will you feel relief?

Healing takes time, and experiences vary from patient to patient. While some patients notice an improvement in their breathing soon after the procedure, it’s important to understand that initial relief may result from the decongestants used during the treatment. As inflammation sets in, your breathing may temporarily worsen before it improves. Most patients start to feel the full benefits of balloon sinuplasty within a few weeks as the healing process completes.

Take control of your sinus health

If chronic sinus issues are impacting your quality of life, balloon sinuplasty may be the solution you need. ADVENT offers simple, in-office treatments designed to get to the root of your sinus problems. Schedule your appointment today, and take the next step toward lasting relief.