Balloon Sinuplasty

Patients experiencing four or more sinus infections annually or infections lasting longer than 12 weeks despite medical therapy often benefit most from this procedure.

Those who have tried antibiotics, nasal sprays, and other medications without achieving lasting relief may find balloon sinuplasty provides the breakthrough they need.

Individuals suffering from ongoing congestion, facial pressure, difficulty breathing, and reduced sense of smell can experience significant improvement following the procedure.

Many patients specifically seek balloon sinuplasty because it offers effective results without the cutting and tissue removal associated with conventional sinus surgery.

Professional and personal obligations often make the shorter recovery period of balloon sinuplasty particularly appealing compared to traditional surgical options.

Patients whose sinus conditions interfere with sleep quality, causing fatigue and decreased daytime functioning, may experience improved sleep following treatment.

Those worried about the side effects of long-term antibiotic use or steroid treatments appreciate balloon sinuplasty as an alternative approach to managing their condition.

Long Island residents affected by local allergens, weather changes, and air quality issues often find balloon sinuplasty helps reduce their sensitivity to these environmental triggers.

Every treatment plan begins with a thorough evaluation of your sinus symptoms, including their duration, severity, and impact on your quality of life. Dr. Cohen takes time to understand your complete medical history, previous treatments, and specific concerns.

When appropriate, Dr. Cohen utilizes high-resolution CT scanning to precisely visualize your sinus anatomy and identify the location and extent of inflammation or blockages. This detailed imaging helps determine if balloon sinuplasty would be effective for your specific condition.

Using a thin, flexible endoscope, Dr. Cohen can directly examine the nasal passages and sinus openings to assess inflammation, structural issues, and potential causes of recurrent infections. This procedure provides critical information for treatment planning.

Based on your comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Cohen develops an individualized approach that may include balloon sinuplasty as a standalone procedure or as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan. He carefully explains the expected benefits and answers all your questions before proceeding.

Dr. Cohen considers the full spectrum of factors that may contribute to your sinus condition, including allergies, anatomical variations, and environmental influences. This comprehensive perspective ensures that balloon sinuplasty is incorporated into a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your sinus health.

You suffer from sinus inflammation lasting more than 12 weeks or experience four or more sinus infections annually despite appropriate medical therapy.

You continue to experience facial pain, pressure, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, or reduced sense of smell despite trying various medications and treatments.

Your imaging reveals blockages of the sinus ostia (openings) that could be effectively addressed through the balloon dilation technique.

You seek effective treatment but wish to avoid the tissue removal and more extensive recovery associated with traditional sinus surgery.

Previous courses of antibiotics, nasal steroids, antihistamines, or other medications haven’t provided adequate or lasting relief from your symptoms.

You understand the potential benefits and limitations of the procedure and have discussed these thoroughly with Dr. Cohen.

The location and nature of your sinus blockages are amenable to the balloon dilation technique, as determined through diagnostic evaluation.

Before your procedure, Dr. Cohen will provide detailed instructions on medication management. Some patients are advised to discontinue blood-thinning medications temporarily. A topical decongestant may be used to prepare your nasal passages.

To ensure your comfort, Dr. Cohen carefully applies topical anesthetic medication to numb your nasal passages. Local anesthetic is then precisely injected to provide complete comfort during the procedure. Most patients experience minimal discomfort with this approach.

Once you’re comfortable, Dr. Cohen uses endoscopic visualization to guide a small, flexible catheter into the blocked sinus. A soft guidewire then advances the balloon to the precise location of the blockage. When properly positioned, the balloon is gradually inflated to gently restructure and widen the sinus opening.

After dilating the pathway, Dr. Cohen may flush the sinus with saline solution to remove accumulated mucus and inflammatory material. This irrigation helps clear the sinus and promote immediate improved drainage. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the sinus passage open.

The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on how many sinuses require treatment. Many patients are surprised by how comfortable and quick the experience is compared to their expectations.

Following balloon sinuplasty, you’ll spend a short time recovering in the office before being released to go home. Dr. Cohen will provide specific care instructions and schedule your follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.