Approximately 37 million Americans suffer from sinusitis annually. Most sinusitis is manageable with medical therapy and can end after a few days of taking medication. However severe cases, referred to as chronic or recurrent sinusitis, are more challenging to deal with. When medications fail, your primary physician may refer you to a nearby Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor in your area for specialized treatment methods like surgery to clear your sinuses. Many people cringe at the sound of surgery, but luckily, there are new surgical procedures that are less painful, and do not involve any cuts, incisions, or removal of bones or tissues.
On This Page: What is a Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure, Benefits of an In-Office Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure, What Conditions Does Balloon Sinuplasty Treat?, How Much Does Balloon Sinuplasty Cost?, What To Know About Balloon Sinuplasty Recovery, Contact Us
What is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive in-office procedure where a small balloon is inserted into the nasal cavity and guided into the natural sinus drainage pathways using a nasal endoscopy camera and sinus CT navigation. The balloon is inflated to dilate the natural sinus drainage pathways and then removed. The dilated sinus drainage pathways are now open more capable to naturally drain, thus eliminating recurrent sinus issues and infections.
Who is a Good Candidate for BSP?
A good candidate for balloon sinuplasty is anyone that is suffering from sinus complaints such as sinus congestion, sinus pressure/pain, recurrent sinus infections, nasal obstruction, thick nasal discharge/drainage, sinus headaches, allergies, and snoring/sleep apnea
How Much Does Balloon Sinuplasty Cost?
The cost of a balloon sinuplasty procedure generally ranges between $2,000 and $7,000. This variation depends on several key factors, including whether the treatment is performed in an outpatient clinic or at a hospital, the geographic location of the medical facility, and the experience and qualifications of the ENT specialist or surgeon performing the procedure.
This estimated cost typically applies to patients without health insurance or whose insurance does not include coverage for balloon sinuplasty. Since it is considered a minimally-invasive and relatively innovative treatment for chronic sinusitis, some insurance providers may still classify it as experimental or not medically necessary.
However, an increasing number of insurance companies are beginning to cover balloon sinuplasty due to its effectiveness, safety profile, and positive patient outcomes. It’s important to consult with your medical insurance provider in advance to verify your coverage eligibility, including whether the procedure will be fully or partially reimbursed.
At Boise ENT Sinus & Snoring Specialists, we are happy to help you navigate these questions and provide cost transparency for patients considering this non-surgical alternative. If you’re seeking lasting relief from sinus congestion, or have additional questions about the pricing, insurance billing, or out-of-pocket expenses associated with balloon sinuplasty, don’t hesitate to contact our ENT near you.
Recovery After a Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure
Everyone’s body reacts or recovers differently after medical procedures, but recovery from balloon sinuplasty is typically very easy and minimal. Patients are typically in the office for approximately 1 hour from start to finish for procedure. Approximately 15 minutes after procedure patients are discharged home. Most patients are back to normal daily activities within 1 to 2 days. Patients may feel some mild inflammation, irritation, and nasal congestion while recovering, but this is a lot more minimal than traditional sinus surgery because there are no splints or packing placed like with traditional sinus surgery.
Read our brochures about the Balloon Dilation, Balloon Sinuplasty and In-Office Balloon Sinuplasty Benefits.
Say Goodbye to Chronic Sinusitis with In-Office Balloon Sinuplasty at Boise ENT Sinus & Snoring Specialists
Chronic sinusitis is uncomfortable and frustrating. Boise ENT Sinus & Snoring Specialists is home to highly qualified and experienced ENT specialist Don J Beasley, MD. Our entire team is here to ensure you get the most personalized care for your sinusitis and strive to provide the very best balloon sinuplasty services. Contact Boise ENT Sinus & Snoring Specialists for a consultation to learn if balloon sinuplasty surgery is recommended for your chronic sinusitis.
We also offer balloon sinuplasty surgery for residents of surrounding communities like Nampa, and Meridian.
Is this procedure covered by insurance?
Yes. Idaho has excellent coverage for this minimally invasive procedure. Your doctor will get prior-authorization from your insurance carrier to verify your benefits. In many cases, patients can have this procedure done for as low as an office visit copay.
Does In-Office Balloon Sinuplasty hurt?
In the studies conducted using the Entellus balloon, the average pain score was 2.7. You will experience facial pressure and typically hear cracking sounds similar to and egg shell, which is normal. Should you experience pain at any time during the procedure, your doctor can adjust your anesthesia medication to maximize your comfort for a positive experience.
Will I be put to sleep?
No, general anesthesia is not administered. Patients will usually be given oral, topical and local medication as part of anesthesia protocol. You will be awake, similar to a dental procedure.
Do I need a ride to/from the office?
Yes. In most cases your doctor will prescribe an anxiolytic, such as Lorazepam, and an anti-nausea Phenergan. These are taken 1 hour before the procedure, so we recommend that you arrange transportation to/from the office and that you do not operate a vehicle during this time.
Does the balloon stay in?
No, once the balloon is in place it is dilated for a few seconds then deflated and removed. The “doorways” to your sinuses will be permanently remodeled and reshaped.
What are the most common post-op side effects?
Some patients may experience headache, nasal congestion, minimal blood/mucus drainage, and facial pain. This temporary and in most cases will resolve the day after the procedure.
How long will I miss work/school?
In most cases, patients can return to work/school the next day if not the same day. Your doctor will advise you of your limitations, if any.
How effective is the Balloon Sinus Dilation?
A recent study comparing Balloon Sinus Dilation to Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) showed that patients had similar outcomes. OSBD is not inferior to FESS. Patients recover quicker and require less debridement, which means less time missed from work/school.
How long will the results last?
There is now sufficient data showing long term efficiency and indefinite results (beyond three years). Your outcome will typically depend on the severity of your sinus disease. There is very low revision rate for this procedure (less than 10%).
Is any tissue removed?
No, there is no tissue removal when dilating your sinuses. Your doctor will discuss possible removal of tissue with you only if you have structures in your nose that will make it difficult for him/her to perform the procedure.
How long will this procedure take?
Total start to finish time is typically around 1 hour. The anesthesia protocol takes longer than the procedure itself. Usually about 30-45 minutes. The actual balloon procedure takes about 10 minutes.
Will this cure my sinus disease?
No, unfortunately, there is no cure for sinus disease. For maximized results you should stay in compliance with any allergy immunotherapy, nasal steroids, etc that your doctor may have you on. This procedure will decrease your chances of a sinus infection and improve your quality of life by relieving associated symptoms, therefore making reducing infections, rounds of antibiotics and missed time from work.