If you suffer from chronic sinus infections, constant nasal congestion, or relentless sinus pressure, you’ve probably searched for relief—only to be overwhelmed by conflicting information. One treatment you may have come across is balloon sinuplasty, but with so many myths circulating, how do you separate fact from fiction?

This guide debunks the most common misconceptions about balloon sinuplasty so you can make an informed decision about your sinus health.

What Is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Before addressing the myths, let’s first understand what balloon sinuplasty actually is. Balloon sinuplasty (BSP) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic sinusitis without traditional surgery. Using a small, flexible balloon catheter, your ENT specialist dilates blocked sinus passages, restoring natural drainage without cutting tissue or bone.

Now, let’s breakdown the biggest myths—and reveal the truths behind them.

Common Myths About Balloon Sinuplasty

Myth: “All sinus surgeries are the same.”

Truth: Not even close. Think of balloon sinuplasty as propping open a stuck door to improve airflow, while endoscopic sinus surgery is like remodeling the entire room—removing blockages, addressing structural issues, and ensuring long-term drainage.

Myth: “Balloon sinuplasty is a permanent fix for everyone.”

Truth: For appropriately selected patients, balloon sinuplasty can provide long-lasting relief by widening the sinus openings to help them drain better. However, for some— particularly those with underlying inflammatory conditions, extensive disease, or significant anatomical abnormalities—symptoms may come back, and a more advanced procedure like endoscopic sinus surgery might be a better option.

Myth: “Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS) is a drastic and highly invasive procedure with a painful, long recovery.”

Truth: While ESS is more invasive than balloon sinuplasty, modern techniques have made it significantly less painful with a quicker, more comfortable recovery. Advances in instrumentation and navigation, and often avoiding nasal packing, have improved patient experience.

Myth: “Balloon Sinuplasty is always as effective as Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.”

Truth: Balloon Sinuplasty works well for narrowed sinus openings, but it doesn’t remove polyps, correct severe deformities, or address deep inflammation. ESS remains the gold standard for complex cases.

Myth: “The balloon stays inside your sinuses.”

Truth: This is false. The balloon is temporarily inflated to widen passages, then completely deflated and removed. Nothing is left behind.

Myth: “Balloon sinuplasty cures sinus headaches.”

Truth: While Balloon Sinuplasty can help relieve sensations like facial pressure and nasal congestion, headaches that mimic sinus headaches, like migraines and tension headaches do not improve with the procedure.

Myth: “Everyone is a candidate for balloon sinuplasty.”

Truth: Although balloon sinuplasty is a safe and effective option for many patients, it’s not suitable for all cases. Some sinus conditions require a more extensive surgical approach. You may not be a good candidate for balloon sinuplasty if you have:

• Large or recurring nasal polyps
• Severe nasal or sinus structural deformities (like a major deviated septum)
• Fungal sinus infections
• Complicated or chronic sinus disease

Myth: “If Balloon Sinuplasty didn't work, there are no other surgical options for my sinuses.”

Truth: This is a critical concern for patients who have failed balloon sinuplasty. It’s understandable to feel discouraged—but you still have options. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a well-established and effective surgical procedure that can provide significant relief when BSP falls short.

Find Relief from Chronic Sinus Issues in Connecticut

If you're struggling with chronic sinus issues, the best way to determine the right treatment is a personalized evaluation with an experienced ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist.

At ENT Medical and Surgical Group, we’re here to help. Our Castle Connolly Top Doctors— Dr. Eugenia M. Vining and Dr. Tapan D. Patel —are fellowship-trained rhinologists specializing in the full spectrum of nasal and sinus conditions, from the routine to the most complex.

Schedule a consultation with our expert ENT team to discuss whether balloon sinuplasty or another treatment is right for you. Relief might be closer than you think!