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Balloon Sinus Dilation
Home Balloon Sinus Dilation
Treatments

Balloon Sinus Dilation

What is Balloon Sinus Dilation?

Balloon Sinus Dilation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinus problems. It gently opens blocked sinus drainage pathways using a small balloon, helping the sinuses drain normally again.

Who can benefit from Balloon Sinus Dilation?

Balloon Sinus Dilation may benefit patients who:

  • Have chronic rhinosinusitis
  • Continue to have symptoms despite medical treatment (such as nasal sprays or repeated antibiotics)
  • Do not have significant nasal polyps
  • Want a less invasive alternative to traditional sinus surgery

Symptoms it can help with:

  • Facial pressure or pain
  • Nasal blockage or congestion
  • Post‑nasal drip
  • Recurrent sinus infections
  • Reduced sense of smell

Why it can help when other treatments have not:

  • Some patients continue to have symptoms because their sinus drainage pathways are narrow or blocked.
  • Balloon Sinus Dilation physically opens these pathways, improving ventilation and drainage when medicines alone have not worked.

Who offers the procedure?

Balloon Sinus Dilation can be performed by ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) consultants. It may be available on the NHS for selected patients, depending on local commissioning policies. It can also be offered privately
An ENT specialist can advise whether Balloon Sinus Dilation or another treatment is most appropriate.

How does Balloon Sinus Dilation work?

Balloon Sinus Dilation uses a small balloon device that is placed into the blocked sinus opening and gently inflated to widen the passageway, restoring natural drainage.

What happens during the Balloon Sinus Dilation procedure?

Balloon Sinus Dilation is performed in hospital or clinic settings and is often done under local or general anaesthetic.

  • A thin guidewire places the balloon into the sinus opening
  • The balloon is gently inflated using saline to widen the sinus
  • The balloon is deflated, then removed, leaving the sinus open
  • There is no cutting or tissue removal

What are the advantages of Balloon Sinus Dilation?

  • Minimally invasive
  • May preserve normal sinus tissue
  • May have faster recovery compared to traditional surgery
  • May reduce post operative Reduced bleeding
  • May avoid more extensive surgery in suitable patients

What are the disadvantages of Balloon Sinus Dilation?

  • Not suitable for all patients
  • Less effective if there is extensive disease or nasal polyps
  • Some patients may still need further treatment or surgery
  • Availability on the NHS may vary

What other treatments or procedures are available?

•  Nasal steroid sprays
•  Saline rinses
•  Antibiotics
•  Traditional sinus surgery (FESS – Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)
•  Long‑term medical management

An ENT specialist will help decide the best option.

Further information and resources

You may find out information sheet Talking to your doctor about smell and taste impairment helpful when discussing your treatment options with your doctor.Â