Most people will encounter a sinus issue at some point. However, certain individuals deal chronic sinus problems that are severe enough to impact their lives, requiring sinus surgery. After trying different treatment options, these people might need sinus surgery to address their problem. While surgery can sound scary, the right doctor can put your mind at ease and prevent more sinus problems in the future. Read on and learn if sinus surgery is right for you.
Who Needs Sinus Surgery?
Surgery on the sinus is recommended for a variety of patients. The most common issue that is treated during sinus surgery is chronic sinusitis (or chronic sinus infections). This is usually recommended for patients who have tried a variety of other treatments for their infections, including antibiotics or anti-fungal medication.
There are other issues that can be fixed during surgery as well. Surgery on the sinus can be used to remove harmful or uncomfortable growths in the sinus cavities, such as nasal polyps or tumors. It can also be used to correct problems in the structure of the nose or sinus cavities. These structural problems can impact a patient’s life by making breathing difficult.
Types of Sinus Surgery
The most common type of sinus surgery is functional endoscopic sinus surgery, or FESS. In this procedure, your doctor will insert a small camera called an endoscope through your nostril to get a clear look at your nasal passages and sinus cavities. During this surgery, your doctor can also clean or remove tissue from your sinus cavity to help ease your symptoms. FESS is usually an outpatient procedure.
Some patients will need image-guided surgery (IGS). During this procedure, a CT scan will be used to give doctors a clear look at your sinus cavity and the surrounding areas while they operate. There are other sinus related surgeries as well, such as open sinus surgery or endoscopic skull base surgery, but these are only used for severe issues. Your doctor will be able to tell you more about your surgery options.
Recovering from Sinus Surgery
Take care of yourself after surgery to make sure you recover as quickly and comfortably as possible. After a procedure with an anesthetic, it’s important to rest. Sleep with your head elevated on extra pillows to reduce sinus pressure and swelling. Also, avoid blowing your nose for about a week. Continue to take medications as you normally would. Your doctor can also prescribe additional pain medication if necessary.
After your surgery, you may need nasal packing. This is a special gauze that is placed in the sinus cavity to absorb blood as you recover. Your doctor will remove this gauze at your follow-up appointment, or they may use special dissolvable packing that does not need to be removed. This packing will also help you recover effectively.
When it comes to sinus surgery, there is a lot to consider. Talk through your questions with a doctor and be proactive with your health. Would you like to learn more about sinus surgery? Contact Dr. Michael Burnett at 212-867-4813 to schedule an ENT appointment today.
