Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

When patients suffer from chronic sinus symptoms that are not responsive to medical therapies, endoscopic sinus surgery may be performed. This procedure removes blockages in the sinuses that can cause pain, drainage, impaired breathing, and other symptoms.

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Faster, Easier and More Comfortable Sinus Surgery

Sinus surgery has improved significantly over the years. In the past, it required external incisions and extensive nasal packing, and resulted in substantial pain and a lengthy recovery process. However, with advances in technology and the emergence of the nasal endoscope, sinus surgery is now easier and less invasive than ever.

With endoscopic sinus surgery, the procedure is performed entirely inside the nose, without any face or mouth incisions. It uses a nasal endoscope, which is a small, lighted instrument that allows the surgeon to see inside the nose and sinuses. The procedure is associated with minimal nasal packing, mild pain, and a short recovery period.

Why is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Performed?

Your SFENTA™ physician may recommend endoscopic sinus surgery to treat sinusitis, a deviated septum, turbinate hypertrophy, and/or nasal polyps. The goal of the procedure is to:

Reduce the number and severity of your sinus infections
Improve airflow throughout the nose
Improve your sinusitis symptoms
Improve your sense of smell.

The Procedure

Endoscopic sinus surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will begin by inserting the nasal endoscope into the nose to provide visualization of the sinus tissues. He or she will then remove the underlying cause of your sinus blockage, such as nasal polyps, structural issues, and scar tissue. In some cases, your doctor will also straighten the nasal septum and/or reduce the size of the turbinates.

Recovery

Because endoscopic sinus surgery is performed entirely inside the nose and doesn’t require external incisions, most patients can return home the same day to begin the healing process. For the first three to five days after surgery, you can expect some bloody discharge, pain, and fatigue. Nasal congestion and discharge are also common for about three weeks. To relieve these symptoms, you may use nasal saline spray every two hours and irrigate your sinuses with sinus rinse kits twice a day. To prevent bleeding, refrain from blowing your nose, engaging in strenuous activity, and straining. You will also need to avoid steroid nasal sprays, along with aspirin and other NSAIDs.

Although endoscopic sinus surgery is very safe, there are some red flags to be aware of during recovery. If you have a fever higher than 101, constant watery discharge, sudden vision changes, eye swelling, a severe headache, neck stiffness, or steady nose bleeding, contact your doctor’s office immediately.

Schedule Your Procedure

For patients who suffer from chronic sinus symptoms, endoscopic sinus surgery is a safe and effective way to achieve lasting relief. If you’re ready to breathe easier and improve your overall quality of life, contact your local SFENTA™ physician today to schedule an initial consultation and begin planning for your surgery.