Sinus Surgery Uncovered: Breathing Easier, Living Better

Your sinuses are small, hollow cavities in your forehead, behind your cheekbones, between your eyes, and deep within the bones of your nose. They help humidify and filter the air you breathe, make your voice sound richer, and produce mucus that traps dust, germs, and other particles to keep your nasal passages clean and healthy.

Conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or structural issues such as a deviated septum can block your sinuses, causing mucus buildup, inflammation, and infections. These issues often lead to symptoms like facial pressure, headaches, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and losing your sense of smell and taste.

While many sinus problems are manageable with medications, nasal sprays, or other non-surgical treatments, there are times when these options aren’t enough. In these cases, sinus surgery is often the most effective option. 

If you’re considering this procedure, Mani Zadeh, MD, our board-certified ear, nose, and throat specialist, is the one to trust for the best outcomes. This blog explains when sinus surgery might be necessary and what the procedure involves.

Symptoms of sinus problems

Sinus problems can show up in many ways, and the severity of symptoms differs from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness
• Facial pain, pressure, or tenderness around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, or nose
• Headaches that worsen when leaning forward
• Thick nasal discharge, often yellow or green
• Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat)
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Bad breath 
• Ear pain or pressure
• Fatigue

While occasional sinus infections are common and often go away with simple treatments, it might be time to consider surgery if you experience chronic or severe symptoms.

What is endoscopic sinus surgery?

Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that improves drainage and relieves chronic sinus issues. Unlike traditional sinus surgery, which may involve making significant incisions, endoscopic surgery is performed entirely through the nostrils with no external cuts. This technique reduces tissue trauma, minimizes discomfort, and speeds up recovery.

During the procedure, Dr. Zadeh inserts an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a high-definition camera, and light into the nasal passages. Using specialized instruments, he removes obstructions such as nasal polyps, scar tissue, or inflamed mucosal tissue. 

In some cases, he may remove small amounts of bone to enlarge the natural openings of your sinuses, allowing for better airflow and drainage.

When is sinus surgery needed?

Dr. Zadeh typically recommends sinus surgery when other treatments have failed.  If you’ve tried antibiotics, nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, and decongestants without success, surgery might be the next step. 

Issues like a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or narrow sinus passages can block proper drainage and require this procedure.  People who experience frequent infections despite medical treatment may also benefit from surgery.

Rare but serious complications, such as infections that can spread to the eyes or brain, may require emergency sinus surgery. Dr. Mani Zadeh carefully evaluates each patient to determine if this procedure is the best option. 

What to expect before, during, and after sinus surgery

You start with a thorough evaluation by Dr. Zadeh, which may include a physical exam, nasal endoscopy, and imaging tests like a CT scan to get a precise view of your sinuses. Most sinus surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, though some minimally invasive procedures can be done with local anesthesia. 

The duration of surgery varies depending on the complexity of your case but typically ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours. Thanks to endoscopic techniques, there are usually no visible scars, and the procedure is less invasive than traditional surgery.

Recovery depends on the type of surgery you have. Most patients experience some nasal congestion, mild discomfort, and drainage during the first week. Dr. Zadeh provides detailed aftercare instructions, including managing pain, reducing swelling, and preventing infection. 

Follow-up visits are essential to monitor your healing and ensure your sinuses remain open and healthy.

When it comes to sinus surgery, experience and expertise matter. Dr. Mani Zadeh, MD, is a board-certified ENT specialist with extensive experience in endoscopic sinus surgery. Schedule a consultation with Mani Zadeh, MD, today to get rid of your chronic sinus issues.