Is nasal polyp removal painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Any pain or discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

How long does recovery take after nasal polyp removal?

Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within a week. Full healing may take several weeks.

Can nasal polyps come back after removal?

Yes, nasal polyps can recur in some cases. However, proper post-operative care and management can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

Will removing nasal polyps improve my sense of smell?

Many patients experience an improvement in their sense of smell after nasal polyp removal. However, the extent of improvement can vary depending on individual factors.

How effective is nasal polyp removal in treating chronic sinusitis?

Nasal polyp removal is often very effective in treating chronic sinusitis symptoms. Many patients experience significant improvement in breathing, reduced congestion, and fewer sinus infections after the procedure.

Nasal Polyp Removal

We can remove these noncancerous growths on the lining of your sinuses or nasal passages.

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Contents: Benefits Procedure Recovery & Outlook FAQs

Overview

Nasal polyp removal is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic sinusitis and other related symptoms caused by nasal polyps. This safe and effective treatment offers significant relief from nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, and frequent sinus infections.

What is Nasal Polyps Removal?

Nasal polyp removal is a procedure designed to remove noncancerous growths (polyps) that develop in the nasal passages and sinuses. Polyps can cause chronic sinusitis, breathing difficulties, and frequent sinus infections. The procedure uses a small endoscope to visualize the polyps and guide their removal. It can be performed either in the office or in a nearby operating room, depending on the severity of the condition.

Who is Nasal Polyp Removal For?

Balloon sinuplasty is ideal for patients suffering from chronic sinusitis who have not found relief from other treatments, such as medication or nasal sprays. It is particularly beneficial for those who experience frequent sinus infections, facial pain, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing due to blocked sinuses. Candidates for balloon sinuplasty typically include individuals who:

Suffer from persistent nasal blockage and breathing difficulties
Have a sense of smell that is either reduced or nonexistent
Experience recurrent sinus infections despite treatment
Have anatomical obstructions in the nasal passages

Benefits

Nasal polyp removal offers numerous benefits, including:

Immediate and often long-term relief from sinusitis symptoms

Diagram of a head highlighting breathing passageways

Improved nasal airflow and breathing

Reduction in the frequency and severity of sinus infections

Enhanced quality of life due to better overall sinus health

Procedure Details

What Happens Before the Procedure?

Before undergoing balloon sinuplasty, patients will have a thorough consultation with their ENT specialist. During this consultation, the specialist will:

Review the patient's medical history and symptoms
Conduct a physical examination, including an endoscopic examination of the nasal passages
Order imaging studies, such as a CT scan, to assess the extent of sinus blockage. This scan can be done in the office.
Discuss the procedure, including its benefits, risks, and what to expect
Provide pre-procedure instructions, such as avoiding certain medications and fasting if necessary.

What Happens During the Procedure?

ENTs typically perform balloon sinuplasty in the office under local anesthesia, often with Valium or other relaxing medication. The steps of the procedure include:

Anesthesia: The ENT will administer local anesthesia to numb the patient's nasal passages. Children who need balloon sinuplasty have the procedure done in the operating room under general anesthesia.
Insertion of the Balloon Catheter: A small, flexible balloon catheter is inserted into the sinus passage using an endoscope for guidance.
Inflation of the Balloon: The balloon inflates to widen the blocked sinus passage, restoring normal drainage.
Removal of the Balloon: Once the sinus passage expands, the balloon deflates and is removed, leaving the sinus open and clear.
Irrigation (if needed): Saline solution removes mucus or debris from the sinus cavity.

How Long Does Balloon Sinuplasty Take?

Inflating the balloon and dilating the sinus drainage pathway only takes a few seconds. More than one sinus is often treated, which adds time to the procedure. In addition, some cases are more complex, which may also add time. Remember that before the treatment, we place cotton with numbing medication in the nose and let it sit for a while. Plan an hour from start to finish, with the actual procedural time being less than that.

Is Balloon Sinuplasty Painful?

Balloon sinuplasty is generally well-tolerated and less painful than traditional sinus surgery. Patients may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but this is usually mild and manageable with local anesthesia. After the procedure, some patients may experience minor pain or pressure in the sinus area, which over-the-counter pain medications can alleviate. We typically provide prescription medication as well if needed.

What Happens After the Procedure?

After balloon sinuplasty, patients can expect a relatively quick recovery. Post-procedure care typically includes:

Monitoring: Patient monitoring to ensure there are no immediate issues.
Rest: Rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activities for the next few days.
Medications: The ENT may prescribe pain relievers, nasal sprays, or medicated sinus rinse to aid recovery and prevent infection.
Follow-Up: Patients will have a follow-up appointment with the ENT specialist to assess the healing process and ensure the procedure's success.
Symptom Improvement: Most patients experience significant improvement in sinusitis symptoms in one to a few weeks after the procedure.

Recovery & Outlook

How Long is Recovery?

Recovery time after balloon sinuplasty is generally shorter than traditional sinus surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities in 48 hours; however, it is recommended that they avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about a week. Full recovery and healing of the sinus passages may take a few weeks.

How Long Does Balloon Sinuplasty Last?

The results of balloon sinuplasty are typically long-lasting, with many patients experiencing significant relief from sinusitis symptoms for several years. It is essential to realize that medicated sinus rinse use for several months after the procedure is key to its success. In addition, balloon sinuplasty’s benefits can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the initial condition and overall health. Additional treatments or procedures are sometimes necessary if symptoms recur.

How Long Does Balloon Sinuplasty Last?

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover balloon sinuplasty?

Many insurance plans cover balloon sinuplasty as a medically necessary procedure for treating chronic sinusitis. Before proceeding with the treatment, it is essential to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs. It is also important to expect a certain amount of expense and be comfortable with this.
Are there any risks or complications associated with balloon sinuplasty?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with balloon sinuplasty, including bleeding and infection; however, these risks are relatively low, and the procedure is safe and effective.
Are there any risks or complications associated with balloon sinuplasty?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with balloon sinuplasty, including bleeding and infection; however, these risks are relatively low, and the procedure is safe and effective.
Can balloon sinuplasty be performed on children?

An ENT may perform balloon sinuplasty on children with chronic sinusitis; however, the decision is on a case-by-case basis. Children require general anesthesia, typically provided at a nearby surgery center or hospital.
How soon can I expect results after balloon sinuplasty?

Many patients experience relief from sinusitis symptoms about a week after the procedure, with continued improvement over the following several weeks.
Will I need any additional treatments after balloon sinuplasty?

Saline irrigations, often with medication, are key to the success of balloon sinuplasty. Patients perform these rinses at least twice a day and continue for up to several months, depending on the severity of their condition.
How do I know if I am a candidate for balloon sinuplasty?

Suppose you suffer from chronic sinusitis and have not found relief with other treatments. In that case, you may be a candidate for balloon sinuplasty. An evaluation by an ENT specialist, including a review of your medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic imaging, will determine your eligibility.
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?

While the treatment itself is minimally invasive, there is often some minor bleeding that occurs after the procedure. This, combined with the fact that many providers recommend a sedative such as Valium, means that a ride home is essential.

Balloon sinuplasty is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option for treating chronic sinusitis. By understanding the treatment, its benefits, and the recovery process, patients can make informed decisions about their sinus health and seek the appropriate care for lasting relief. If you are experiencing persistent sinusitis symptoms, consult your ENT specialist to see if balloon sinuplasty is right for you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Davis

Written by
Breathe Clear Institute Editorial Team

Posted on
June 4, 2024