If sinus headaches, chronic cough, snoring, severe allergies, or any other chronic sinus and nasal issues plague your daily life, you are not alone. About 30 million Americans are diagnosed with sinusitis every year. If this is an issue you have battled with for a while, then you know all too well the never ending cycle of using over-the-counter medications that temporarily relieve some of the symptoms, only for them to come back with a vengeance once the medication has worn off. Thankfully, there is a light at the end of the tunnel: Balloon Sinuplasty Treatment (aka sinus surgery).
What is Balloon Sinuplasty Treatment?
Balloon Sinuplasty treatment is a simple, 20 minute, in-office procedure that can help end the fruitless over-the-counter and home remedy battle, and rid the symptoms of sinusitis. The procedure is easy:
- A small balloon catheter is inserted into the affected sinus
- The balloon is inflated to expand the sinus opening
- All remaining pus and mucus is flushed out of the sinus
This simple procedure works by helping to expand the nasal passages that cannot drain properly and remain clogged. Once the balloon is inserted into the sinus and has been expanded, the sinus is then able to drain properly and allows for proper airflow throughout the nose.
Each individual will have their own set of recovery instructions, but overall recovery is simple and easy. Most people can return to normal activities after the first 24-48 hours. Slight tenderness and swelling is expected the first few days. Likewise, be prepared to take it easy for a few days after the procedure to allow your sinuses to fully heal while you rid yourself of the pain that comes with sinusitis.
Is Balloon Sinuplasty Treatment Effective?
Not only is balloon sinuplasty an easy procedure, it is also effective. For example, there is a 95% success rate in adults, with over 500,000 treated so far living their lives without the discomfort and hassle of sinus pain. Additionally, this non-invasive sinus surgery also boasts a success rate of 81%-86% a whole four years afterwards! You can read more in depth about these balloon sinuplasty studies that were published in the National Library of Medicine.
How Much Does Balloon Sinuplasty Cost?
Another great thing about balloon sinuplasty is that most insurance providers, including Medicare, cover the cost of this sinusitis procedure.
For those that are uninsured, the cash price might be worth the relief depending on the severity of your symptoms. Firstly, the procedure takes place in office, as a result, there is no need to worry about hospital fees and copays, as well as anesthesiologist and other medical professional fees. For those who are uninsured, the out-of-pocket cost for this procedure averages between $4,000-$12,000. A variety of factors (i.e. location, case complexity, etc.) affect the cost. Secondly, you can also rest easy knowing that Balloon Sinuplasty is a safe procedure. Being minimally invasive, there is no cutting or removing tissue, so complications are extremely rare. As a result, there is only a minimal risk of infection or bleeding, unlike with traditional sinus surgery. The majority of these procedures are done in the office with local anesthesia, significantly reducing the risks.
Am I a Good Candidate?
If you struggle with chronic sinus issues, frequent sinus headaches, four or more sinus infections annually, prolonged sinus infections for more than 12 weeks at a time, then you would be a good candidate for balloon sinuplasty! Take our Balloon Sinuplasty Quiz to determine if you are eligible for this procedure and let’s help get you out of the sinus medication aisle and back to feeling your best!
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