If you have persistent sinus infections and blocked nasal passageways, your ENT doctor may recommend balloon sinuplasty surgery. The surgeon inserts a tiny balloon into your sinus cavity and gently inflates it to make more room in your sinuses. Once they’ve opened up, your nasal passageways will also expand and mucus will drain out more easily. This procedure can greatly relieve sinus pressure—here’s what to expect after balloon sinuplasty surgery.
The Procedure Itself
Balloon sinuplasty is minimally invasive compared to other sinus surgeries, and you can often get it done right in the office. You can walk right out after your procedure is over—no overnight hospital stay needed. Still, have a designated driver on hand to pick you up after your procedure, as you may be groggy from the anesthesia.
How Does It Feel?
There may be extra pressure, but it’s not particularly painful. Your face will feel extra tender for up to a week, but many patients do go back to work or other daily activities after two or three days. You may experience headaches and pain in your nose as you heal.
What Do I Do?
After you undergo your balloon sinuplasty in Houston, your doctor will give you a list of aftercare instructions and things to expect. Be prepared for the following:
- Extra tiredness or grogginess for up to a week after the procedure. Make sure you get plenty of rest when you go home! Take a break for up to 48 hours after your sinuplasty. If you feel better afterward, you can resume some work and light exercise. Keep in contact with your doctor if you continue to feel fatigued.
- Bloody drainage from your nose. It’s totally normal and will dissipate within a few days. In the meantime, avoid blowing your nose! That effort puts excess strain on nasal passages that are already sore and tender.
- Tenderness in your face. Your sinuses have more room inside now, so your face may feel those proverbial “growing pains.” If your doctor gives you the green light to take over-the-counter pain meds for the residual soreness, have some on hand and follow their dosage instructions.
When you schedule your balloon sinuplasty in Houston, Allergy & ENT Associates is on your side. You’re in good hands with our sinus specialists! We’ll work with you to find the best solutions for your unique ENT issues, including sinuplasty procedures. These things to expect after balloon sinuplasty surgery are totally manageable, and the relief you’ll feel afterward is worth it.
