Surgery
Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery opens up blocked sinuses to improve drainage and airflow, usually for chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps not helped by other treatments.
Quick answer
Sinus Surgery: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) uses a thin camera passed through the nostrils to remove blockages, widen the natural sinus openings and clear polyps or diseased tissue, with no external cuts.
- Why it is done: It is used for long-term sinusitis or nasal polyps causing a blocked nose, facial pain, reduced smell or repeated infections, when sprays, rinses and medicines have not brought enough relief.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon works entirely through the nostrils using an endoscope to open and clear the sinuses.
What it is
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) uses a thin camera passed through the nostrils to remove blockages, widen the natural sinus openings and clear polyps or diseased tissue, with no external cuts.
Why it is done
It is used for long-term sinusitis or nasal polyps causing a blocked nose, facial pain, reduced smell or repeated infections, when sprays, rinses and medicines have not brought enough relief.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon works entirely through the nostrils using an endoscope to open and clear the sinuses. The operation usually takes under an hour and is often a day case.
Recovery
Mild congestion, discharge and a blocked feeling are common for a week or two. Saltwater rinses help healing, and follow-up may include cleaning the nasal passages. Breathing and symptoms usually improve over weeks.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks are small but include bleeding, infection, and rarely injury to the eye or the base of the skull, given how close the sinuses are to these structures. Symptoms, especially polyps, can return.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Sinus Surgery: frequently asked questions
Will sinus surgery cure my sinusitis?
It often greatly improves symptoms by restoring drainage, but sinusitis and nasal polyps can return, especially in people with allergies or asthma. Ongoing sprays and rinses may still be needed.
Are there any cuts on my face?
No. The surgery is done entirely through the nostrils using an endoscope, so there are no external cuts or visible scars.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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