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Sinuses are the six cavities inside the skull located around the eyes and nose and within the front of the face. Sinusitis is when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed due to infection, allergies, or other factors, causing facial pain or pressure, nasal stuffiness, nasal discharge, loss of smell, and cough.
Usually, sinusitis can be treated with medications, such as antibiotics, steroids, or natural remedies. However, surgery may be recommended if sinus infection becomes chronic, affects the quality of life, or does not respond to non-surgical treatments.
Let’s discuss when surgery for sinusitis is recommended and explore different surgical options to help you decide on the best treatment approach for your condition.
When Surgery for Sinusitis Is Recommended
Surgical treatments for sinusitis are typically recommended when:
Standard treatments fail: If antibiotics, nasal decongestants, or corticosteroid sprays do not alleviate the symptoms of sinusitis, your allergist may suggest surgical options.
Chronic sinusitis: When sinusitis lasts more than 12 weeks despite medical treatment, it’s termed chronic sinusitis. Surgery is often considered to provide long-term relief in these cases.
Nasal polyps or tumors: The presence of nasal polyps or tumors can block the sinus passages. Surgery can help remove these obstructions and restore normal sinus function.
Deviated nasal septum: A deviated septum can disrupt normal sinus drainage, leading to recurrent sinusitis. Septoplasty, a type of surgery, can correct this and potentially reduce sinusitis symptoms.
Recurrent sinus infections: If you’re experiencing frequent sinus infections, particularly more than four episodes per year, surgical intervention might be considered to enhance your quality of life and prevent further complications.
Sinusitis Surgery
Sinusitis surgery is a surgical procedure to remove infected sinus tissue, especially in people with recurrent sinusitis. The following are the most common types of sinusitis surgeries to address chronic sinusitis.
Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that helps to open up blocked sinus passages. During the procedure, a small balloon catheter is inserted into the nasal cavity. The surgeon then inflates, deflates, and again inflates the balloon to expand the sinus opening. This helps to improve drainage and airflow, providing long-term relief from chronic sinusitis.
The procedure is safe and effective and can be performed under local anesthesia. It typically takes about an hour to complete and has a shorter recovery period. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few days.
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
FESS is a minimally invasive technique that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light called an endoscope. The surgeon inserts the endoscope into the nose to see the sinus openings, remove blockages, and promote drainage.
Recovery from this type of sinus surgery usually takes a few weeks. Post-operative care includes nasal irrigation and avoiding strenuous activities. Potential complications, although rare, could include bleeding, infection, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia.
Septoplasty
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten a deviated nasal septum — the wall between the two nasal passages. Often, a deviated septum can contribute to poor sinus drainage, leading to recurrent sinusitis.
Sinus Infection Relief Near Me in Illinois
Different surgical options are available for sinusitis, and the best approach will depend on the severity of the condition, the patient’s medical history, and personal preferences.
If you are looking for lasting sinus infection relief, visit us here at Oak Brook Allergists. We have exceptionally skilled allergists who have extensive training in addressing allergic conditions and nasal problems. Our allergists perform comprehensive evaluations to determine an appropriate treatment to possibly treat the underlying cause of your sinus infection and relieve your symptoms.
To find out more about us or to set up a consultation, call us today at 630-574-0460 or use our convenient contact form. We look forward to serving you!
