Sinus surgery is an effective means of treating chronic sinusitis that has not responded to more conservative treatments, such as antibiotics, nasal steroid sprays, anti-histamines, and nasal irrigation. When performing a sinus surgery, a doctor will use special tools to enlarge small sinus openings, re-route sinus pathways, and remove diseased tissues that prevent normal drainage.
There are approximately 11.7 million visits to physician’s office and ambulatory health centers every year that result in a diagnosis of chronic sinusitis. Many of these patients are experiencing symptoms like head and facial pressure, sore throats, cough, congestion, abnormal nasal drainage, and fever that have returned or persisted despite treatment. Fortunately, sinus infections are not contagious; but they can be disruptive, uncomfortable, and in some cases cause serious complications among those who experience them chronically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Could I benefit from sinus surgery?
You may be a candidate for sinus surgery if you suffer from a recurrent sinus infection despite over-the-counter and prescription treatments. Only your doctor can tell you if sinus surgery is right for you, so contact our office to schedule a consultation.
What should I expect during sinus surgery?
Sinus surgery is an outpatient procedure typically performed in a hospital or surgical center under general anesthesia. You’ll have a pre-operative exam and lab work to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery, and you may also be asked to refrain from consuming food or drinks in the hours leading up to your surgery.
There are several types of sinus operations. Your doctor will determine which method is right for you based on your history of prior sinus surgery or whether there is a malignancy in your sinus cavity. Due to the intricate nature of sinus surgery, this procedure can take several hours to complete. Once released from the hospital or surgical center, you will need someone else to drive you home.
Will I need to follow any special instructions during sinus surgery recovery?
The post-operative period is just as important as the operation itself. You will be given specific instructions to rest with your head elevated after the surgery is complete. An ice pack may be used to help reduce swelling and minimize pain at the surgical site. It is normal to experience some bleeding from the nose after surgery. You will need to replace your gauze dressing periodically for the first day or so after surgery. Be sure to follow your doctor’s dietary instructions and avoid hot liquids like coffee for several days after surgery. Finally, ensure that you take all medications and follow post-operative instructions exactly as directed to facilitate a healthy recovery.
