For residents of Michigan, allergy season can be a tough time. The state is home to some of the highest pollen counts in the U.S., with tree pollen in spring and ragweed in the fall causing widespread symptoms like sinus pressure, ear pain and constant congestion. Fortunately, the team at ENT Specialists, with offices in Novi, Brighton and Bingham Farms, is offering two innovative procedures to provide relief for those suffering from chronic sinus and ear issues caused by allergies: balloon sinuplasty and eustachian tuboplasty.
Dr. David Seel, D.O., F.O.C.O.O., one of the leading physicians at ENT Specialists (entspecialistspc.com), explains that these minimally invasive treatments have been particularly effective for patients struggling with ongoing sinus and ear pressure discomfort, which are often exacerbated by seasonal allergies.
Balloon Sinuplasty: A Breakthrough for Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis, which affects many allergy sufferers, is marked by frequent sinus infections, facial pain and pressure. Traditionally, sinus surgery meant invasive procedures involving the removal of tissue, which required a significant recovery time. However, balloon sinuplasty is an in-office procedure that uses a small balloon catheter to open blocked sinus passages without removing tissue or bone. It can be performed under local anesthesia and requires only a mild sedative to help patients relax.
“Chronic sinus problems are common in our region of the country because of our allergens in Michigan,” Dr. Seel says. “Balloon Sinuplasty is a procedure that we found to give great relief to patients with chronic sinusitis. And the procedure can be done with minimal recovery time — some patients can even go back to work the next day.”
The procedure gently dilates the sinus ostium (opening) using a balloon, allowing the sinuses to drain properly. Dr. Seel says most patients experience immediate symptom relief and can return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.
The ENT Specialists note that more than 125,000 patients have undergone the procedure since its development, with a high success rate and patient satisfaction — more than 90 percent of patients who had the procedure said they would recommend it to family and friends.
Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty: A New Option for Ear Pressure Relief
For many allergy sufferers, eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) can worsen the discomfort. The eustachian tubes, which help balance pressure in the ears, can become blocked or inflamed due to allergies or sinus issues, leading to ear pain, pressure and sometimes hearing loss. Dr. Seel’s practice offers balloon eustachian tuboplasty, a similar minimally invasive procedure designed to improve the function of the eustachian tubes.
The procedure involves inserting a balloon catheter through the nose to the opening of the eustachian tube. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to open the tube and gently flatten any inflammation. The balloon is then deflated and removed. The procedure takes only about 20 minutes and is typically performed under local anesthesia. The patient is often able to return to regular activities the next day.
“Eustachian tuboplasty is particularly effective for people who suffer from recurring ear pressure or pain related to allergies,“ Dr. Seel says. “It's often a one-and-done procedure for most patients, and recovery is quick.“ The procedure also carries fewer risks and has a faster recovery time than traditional surgery, which typically requires general anesthesia and more extensive downtime. Additionally, many insurance plans now cover balloon sinuplasty and eustachian tuboplasty.
“More and more insurance companies are realizing that these procedures are more cost-effective than more extensive in-hospital operations,” Dr. Seel says. “They see an advantage over patients needing to enter the operating room, so they are covering these procedures.
“These options provide an excellent alternative to more invasive surgeries,” he says, “making them appealing to patients who need long-term relief without the burden of a lengthy recovery.”
"Our procedures can be done with minimal recovery time — some patients can even go back to work the next day.” — Dr. David Seel