Who it helps
Chronic rhinosinusitis means the lining of the nose and sinuses has been inflamed for twelve weeks or more: a blocked nose, discharge down the throat, pressure in the face, and a poor sense of smell.
Most people improve with saline rinses and steroid sprays. Surgery is considered when they have been used properly for long enough and symptoms remain, when there are polyps that block the nose, or when infection spreads beyond the sinuses.
What happens
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is done through the nostrils under general anaesthetic, with no cut on the face. A thin endoscope lets Dr Kana see inside the nose while he widens the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses and removes polyps.
A CT scan of the sinuses is needed beforehand. It maps the anatomy, which differs from person to person, and shows exactly where the blockage is. A bent septum or enlarged turbinates are often corrected in the same operation.
Recovery
Most patients go home the same day or the next morning. Expect a blocked nose, some blood-stained discharge and tiredness for about a week. Saline rinses several times a day help healing.
Most people return to desk work after a week and to strenuous exercise after two to three weeks. A follow-up visit to clean the nose with the endoscope is usually arranged a week after surgery.
Risks
Bleeding and infection are uncommon. Because the sinuses lie close to the eye and the base of the skull, there are rare but serious risks to these structures, which Dr Kana will discuss with you. Polyps can come back, which is why continued sprays are often advised.
Common questions
Will my nose look different?
No. Sinus surgery is done inside the nose and does not change its shape.
Will I have packing?
Usually only dissolvable packing or none at all. Removable packing is rarely needed.
How soon can I fly after sinus surgery?
Usually after the follow-up visit at about a week. Dr Kana will confirm this for you.
This page is general information, not medical advice for your situation.
