What Is Recovery Like After Balloon Sinuplasty?

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June 28, 2025

If you’re one of the many people in New York City struggling with chronic sinus infections, facial pressure, and congestion that never seems to go away, balloon sinuplasty may offer the relief you’ve been looking for. At New York Sinusitis Treatment, Dr. Gregory Levitin, MD, FACS, provides safe, effective, and minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty procedures at our Williamsburg and Columbus Circle locations. Many patients want to know what recovery is like before choosing this treatment, and the good news is that it’s faster and easier than traditional sinus surgery.

What Is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic sinusitis. It’s ideal for patients who suffer from repeated sinus infections, facial pain, postnasal drip, or nasal congestion that hasn’t responded to medications like antibiotics or nasal sprays.

During the procedure, Dr. Levitin uses a thin, flexible balloon catheter that is gently inserted into the blocked sinus passage. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to widen the sinus opening, allowing normal drainage to resume. Unlike traditional sinus surgery, this technique does not involve cutting or removing bone or tissue, which means less trauma and a faster recovery.

Dr. Levitin is a board-certified Otolaryngologist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. With extensive experience in endoscopic sinus surgery and chronic sinus disease, he has helped thousands of patients throughout NYC breathe better and feel better, without invasive surgery.

What to Expect After Balloon Sinuplasty

One of the major advantages of balloon sinuplasty is the short recovery time. Most patients in New York City are able to return to work and normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Here’s what you can expect:

Mild nasal congestion or drainage for a few days after the procedure
Minimal discomfort, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers
A feeling of pressure or fullness in the sinus area, which usually resolves quickly
Avoidance of strenuous activity for the first 24 hours is recommended

Because balloon sinuplasty preserves the natural structure of the sinuses, there is no need for packing or stitches, making recovery far more comfortable than traditional surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Balloon Sinuplasty

At New York Sinusitis Treatment, we have helped hundreds of New Yorkers get relief from chronic sinusitis. Here are some of the commonly asked questions we hear from Dr. Levitin’s new patients.

Is balloon sinuplasty permanent?

Yes, for many patients, the results are long-lasting. Studies show that over 90% of patients report continued symptom relief two years post-procedure.

Is it done under general anesthesia?

Balloon sinuplasty is often performed under local anesthesia in an office-based setting. However, general anesthesia may be used depending on the patient’s comfort and medical needs.

Who is a good candidate?

Patients with chronic sinusitis, frequent sinus infections, or blocked nasal passages who have not found relief with medications may be excellent candidates.

Get Sinusitis Relief with Dr. Levitin in NYC

If you live in Brooklyn, Manhattan, or anywhere in New York City and are tired of chronic sinus symptoms disrupting your life, balloon sinuplasty might be your answer. Contact New York Sinusitis Treatment today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gregory Levitin and learn how you can breathe easier, with minimal downtime and maximum results.