Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Explained: What to Expect

Living with sinus issues can be exhausting. Whether it’s the constant congestion, pressure headaches, or trouble breathing, these problems can take a toll on your daily life. Thankfully, endoscopic sinus surgery provides a minimally invasive way to address many of these concerns, improving airflow and restoring sinus function.

Here, Excel ENT will walk you through everything you need to know about endoscopic sinus surgery—what it treats, how it works, and what to expect before, during, and after.

What Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?

Endoscopic sinus surgery is a procedure that treats a variety of sinus and nasal problems. Using a thin tube called an endoscope, your surgeon can see inside your nasal passages and sinuses with the help of a tiny camera and light. Since the endoscope goes through your nostrils, there’s no need for external cuts.

This surgery removes blockages, improves airflow, and restores normal sinus function. Whether you’re struggling with chronic sinus infections, nasal polyps, or other issues, this technique can help you find long-term relief. And because it’s minimally invasive, you’ll likely experience less discomfort and faster recovery compared to traditional sinus surgery.

Conditions Treated by Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

This procedure can address a wide range of sinus and nasal problems, including:

• Chronic Sinusitis: Persistent inflammation causing symptoms like congestion, facial pain, and loss of smell. Surgery can remove inflamed tissue and improve drainage.
• Nasal Polyps: These noncancerous growths can block your airways, making it hard to breathe. Surgery removes the polyps while preserving healthy tissue.
• Deviated Septum: A crooked nasal septum can cause breathing problems and sinus issues. Surgery helps straighten it out.
• Fungal Sinusitis: Fungal infections can be stubborn. Surgery removes infected tissue and promotes healing.
• Tumors: If benign or malignant growths are present, surgery can remove or biopsy them.

Endoscopic sinus surgery can treat these conditions and significantly improve quality of life, helping patients breathe easier and feel better.

During the Procedure

Here’s a step-by-step look at how endoscopic sinus surgery works:

1. Anesthesia: You’ll either be under general anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist will monitor you closely throughout the procedure.
2. Endoscope Insertion: The surgeon gently inserts the endoscope into your nostril, providing a clear view of your nasal passages on a monitor.
3. Surgical Work: Using specialized tools including state of the art precision navigation systems, the surgeon removes blockages, widens sinus openings, or corrects structural issues.
4. Cleaning and Irrigation: The surgical area is cleaned to reduce the risk of infection.
5. Completion: The surgeon removes the endoscope and may place soft packing in your nose to control bleeding and ensure proper healing.

The whole process usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and extent of the procedure.

Recovery & Aftercare for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Recovery is a critical part of your journey to better sinus health. Here’s what you can expect:

Immediately After Surgery:

• You’ll spend some time in a recovery area before going home.
• Have someone drive you and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

First Week:

• Rest and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities.
• Use saline rinses to keep your nasal passages moist.
• Take prescribed medications as directed, including any antibiotics or pain relievers.

Long-Term Recovery:

• Attend follow-up appointments for cleaning and monitoring.
• Continue nasal rinses to promote healing.
• Avoid blowing your nose too hard for several weeks.

It’s normal to feel some congestion, mild discomfort, or notice light bleeding for a few days. Call your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection.

Benefits of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Most patients notice significant improvements in their symptoms, including:

• Easier breathing
• Fewer sinus infections
• Improved sense of smell

While endoscopic sinus surgery can’t guarantee a permanent fix, especially for conditions like nasal polyps, it provides long-term relief for many. Your doctor will work with you on a plan to maintain your results, which may include managing allergies or using nasal rinses.

Common Questions About Sinus Surgery

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery painful?

Endoscopic sinus surgery itself is not painful because it’s performed under general or local anesthesia, so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. After surgery, you may experience some discomfort, such as mild pressure or soreness, but this is typically manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications. Many patients find that the relief from chronic sinus symptoms far outweighs the temporary post-operative discomfort.

How long is recovery from sinus surgery? 

Recovery time varies, but most people feel well enough to return to light activities within a week. However, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise and activities that might delay your healing for several weeks. Full recovery, including the resolution of internal swelling, can take several months, but you’ll likely notice a significant improvement in symptoms much sooner. Your ENT will provide specific recovery guidelines tailored to your situation.

Will I have scars from sinus surgery? 

No, there are no visible scars from endoscopic sinus surgery. This is because the procedure is performed entirely through the nostrils using a small camera and specialized instruments. The lack of external incisions is one of the key advantages of this minimally invasive approach, making it a preferred option for treating chronic sinus issues.

When will I breathe better after sinus surgery? 

Immediately after surgery, you may feel congested due to swelling and some crusting within the nose. As healing progresses, usually within a few weeks, you’ll start to notice improvements in your ability to breathe. Full benefits are typically experienced once all swelling has resolved, often within a few months, leaving you with clearer and more comfortable airflow.

Are there risks with sinus surgery? 

As with any surgery, there are risks, such as bleeding, infection, or reactions to anesthesia. Specific risks of endoscopic sinus surgery include damage to nearby structures, like the eyes or brain, though these complications are rare with an experienced surgeon and the use of precision guided navigation systems.. Your doctor will thoroughly discuss potential risks and benefits during your consultation, helping you make an informed decision about your treatment.

Finding an ENT Specialist in Birmingham

If you’re ready to take control of your sinus health, Excel ENT in Birmingham is here to help. Our experienced ENT specialists provide expert care with a personal touch. From your initial consultation to recovery, we’re with you every step of the way to ensure you feel confident and cared for.

Breathe Easier with Expert Care from Excel ENT—Contact Us Now

Don’t let sinus issues hold you back any longer! At Excel ENT in Birmingham, AL, our experienced team is here to provide personalized care and advanced treatments, including endoscopic sinus surgery. 

Whether you’re dealing with chronic sinusitis, nasal blockages, or other ENT concerns, we’ll help you find lasting relief. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better sinus health!