Is Balloon Angioplasty Permanent?
Balloon angioplasty may relieve artery blockages, but is it a permanent fix? Learn how long it might last, what affects its durability, and ways to support heart health post-procedure.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
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Introduction
If you or a loved one has undergone balloon angioplasty, you might wonder whether the results are permanent or if further treatment will be needed. This article explains what balloon angioplasty is, how long it lasts, and what you can do to maintain heart health after the procedure.
What Is Balloon Angioplasty?
Balloon angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked arteries, usually in the heart (coronary arteries).
Here’s how the procedure works:
A thin tube (catheter) with a small balloon at its tip is inserted into the blocked artery.
The balloon is inflated to widen the artery and improve blood flow.
Often, a stent (a small mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open.
This procedure helps relieve symptoms like chest pain (angina) and reduces the risk of a heart attack.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice
Is Balloon Angioplasty Permanent?
The short answer is no, it is not always permanent. While balloon angioplasty can provide immediate relief, the long-term success depends on several factors:
1. Stent Placement
The type of stent used during the procedure can affect durability:
Bare-metal stent (BMS) have a higher chance of re-narrowing (restenosis) within months.
Drug-eluting stents (DES) release medication to prevent scar tissue growth, reducing the risk of re-blockage.
2. Lifestyle & Risk Factors
Smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure can cause new blockages. Without healthy changes, new plaques can form in other parts of the artery.
3. Natural Healing Response
Sometimes, the artery may heal by forming scar tissue, leading to re-narrowing (restenosis).
4. New Blockages
Balloon angioplasty treats only the blocked section, but other parts of the artery can develop blockages over time.
How Long Does Balloon Angioplasty Last?
The durability of the results can vary depending on the procedure and individual factors.
1. With a stent:
Drug-eluting stents have a 90% success rate for staying open after 1 year.
Bare-metal stents have a higher risk of re-narrowing (20-30%).
2. Without a stent:
The artery may re-narrow in 30-40% of cases within 6 months.
However, with proper care, many patients enjoy long-term benefits.
How to Make Balloon Angioplasty Last Longer
To maximise the success of your procedure, follow these heart-healthy tips:
1. Take Prescribed Medications
Following your doctor’s medication plan is essential:
Blood thinners (like aspirin or clopidogrel) prevent clots inside the stent.
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins) reduce plaque buildup.
Blood pressure & diabetes medications keep risk factors under control.
2. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
A balanced diet supports overall heart health:
Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and nuts.
Limit processed foods, excess salt, sugar, and trans fats.
3. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity plays a key role in maintaining healthy arteries. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling on most days.
4. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Avoiding harmful habits can make a significant difference:
Smoking damages arteries and increases re-blockage risk.
Excessive alcohol raises blood pressure.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress might negatively impact heart health. Consider practising yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
6. Regular Follow-ups
Visit your cardiologist for check-ups and tests to assess blood flow and detect potential issues early.
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Chest pain or discomfort similar to pre-angioplasty symptoms.
Shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue.
Irregular heartbeat or swelling in legs.
These could indicate restenosis or new blockages.
Can Balloon Angioplasty Be Repeated?
In some cases, a repeat procedure might be necessary. If arteries narrow again, doctors may:
Perform another angioplasty.
Recommend bypass surgery for more severe or widespread blockages.
Conclusion
Balloon angioplasty is not always permanent, but with proper care, its benefits can last for years. By taking medications, eating well, exercising, and avoiding risk factors, you can keep your arteries healthy.
If you have concerns about your heart health or need a follow-up, consult a cardiologist on Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
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Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology, FSCAI
Maharashtra
Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra
Dr. S B Bhattacharyya
Cardiologist
22 Years • MBBS, MD(General Medicine),DM (Cardiology)
Kolkata
Gariaheart Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Jayarajah Mariappan
Cardiologist
45 Years • MBBS, MD(GEN MEDICINE), DM(CARDIOLOGY)
Chennai
Sooriya Hospital, Chennai
Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Mangesh Danej
Cardiologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)
Pune
Dr Danej clinic, Pune
(375+ Patients)
