If you’ve struggled with sinus pain, nasal congestion, or recurrent infections for months or even years, you’re not alone. Chronic sinusitis affects close to 29 million people — and if you’re one of them, you already know how it can disrupt your sleep, productivity at work, and even your quality of life.
The good news is that there’s a gentle, highly effective option available right here in Houston, Texas: balloon sinuplasty.
This month, Conrad Kyle McCutcheon, MD, FACS, and the Memorial Village Sinus and Hearing team explain everything you need to know about balloon sinuplasty and how it can provide lasting relief for chronic sinusitis.
This minimally invasive procedure uses a small, flexible balloon to open blocked sinus passages. It’s similar to how cardiologists widen blocked arteries.
Instead of cutting or removing tissue, Dr. McCutcheon gently inflates the medical balloon to expand your sinus openings. As the balloon expands, it reshapes your sinus pathways without the need to cut any bone or tissue.
Dr. McCutcheon may recommend a balloon sinuplasty if you have symptoms such as:
Balloon sinuplasty isn’t a quick fix for a short-term sinus infection. It’s designed for people who’ve been stuck in the cycle of chronic sinusitis. If your congestion and sinus headaches have lingered for 12 weeks or longer and haven’t improved with antibiotics, nasal sprays, or steroids, you may be a great candidate.
During your consultation, our team takes a deep dive into your symptoms, medical history, imaging, and even your Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) score. This comprehensive approach helps us determine whether balloon sinuplasty is the right solution for you.
If Dr. McCutcheon determines that balloon sinuplasty is right for you, there’s no hospital stay and no long commute. You can have the procedure right here in our Houston office, typically performed with local anesthesia or light sedation so you’re comfortable the entire time.
During the procedure, Dr. McCutcheon uses an advanced 3D navigation system to insert a small balloon catheter (tube) into your blocked sinus passage. Once in place, he slowly inflates the balloon to widen your sinus opening and then rinses out your sinuses with saline. He then removes the balloon, but your sinus pathway remains open.
The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour. Because it doesn’t involve the cutting or removal of any tissue or bone, you typically experience far less discomfort and bleeding compared to traditional sinus surgery.
Your recovery should be smooth and straightforward. You may notice mild congestion or nasal tenderness for a short time, but most people find it very manageable. Our team gives you personalized aftercare instructions, which may include saline rinses and gentle nasal care to support healing.
Many people report clearer breathing and reduced sinus pressure shortly after treatment, with results that can last for months or even years. According to research, 85% of people who had a balloon sinuplasty saw significant improvement by the end of the first week, and 98% saw significant improvement by week 12.
The benefits of choosing minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty over a traditional surgery include:
Dr. McCutcheon finds that most people are back to their normal routines within two days following the procedure.
If chronic sinus symptoms are disrupting your sleep, work, or quality of life and medications haven’t brought relief, it’s time to talk to Dr. McCutcheon about minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty. Call us at 281-990-4259 to schedule a consultation with the Memorial Village Sinus and Hearing team to find out if this procedure is right for you.
