The Ultimate Guide to Sinus Surgery

Not just a Headache

Sinus surgery is a surgical procedure to treat chronic sinusitis, a condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities located in the skull that help to produce mucus and filter the air we breathe. When the sinuses become inflamed, they can become blocked and filled with fluid, leading to pain, pressure, and difficulty breathing.

What is Sinus Surgery?

Sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing the inflamed tissue and mucus from the sinuses. This helps to open up the sinuses and allow them to drain properly. Sinus surgery can be performed using a variety of techniques, including endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and balloon sinuplasty.

Who is a Candidate for Sinus Surgery?

Sinus surgery is typically recommended for patients who have chronic sinusitis that has not responded to other treatments, such as antibiotics, nasal sprays, or allergy medications. Sinus surgery may also be an option for patients who have:

• Recurrent sinus infections
• Nasal polyps
• A deviated septum
• Chronic headaches or facial pain
• Difficulty breathing through the nose

What are the Benefits of Sinus Surgery?

Sinus surgery can provide a number of benefits for patients with chronic sinusitis, including:

• Relief from pain and pressure
• Improved breathing
• Reduced risk of sinus infections
• Improved sense of smell and taste

What are the Risks of Sinus Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with sinus surgery. These risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Damage to the eye or brain
• Loss of sense of smell

However, these risks are rare and can be minimized by choosing an experienced and qualified surgeon.

What to Expect During Sinus Surgery

Sinus surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you will be able to go home the same day. The surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

During the surgery, you will be given anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The surgeon will then make a small incision in the nose and insert a thin, lighted tube called an endoscope. The endoscope will allow the surgeon to see the sinuses and remove any inflamed tissue or mucus.

Recovery from Sinus Surgery

After sinus surgery, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort. This can be managed with pain medication. You may also experience some swelling and bruising around the eyes. This will typically subside within a few days.

Most people are able to return to work or school within a few days after sinus surgery. However, it may take several weeks or months to fully recover from the surgery.

Sinuses Surgery