Chronic Sinus Problems? A Sinus Specialist Explains When Surgery Is the Answer

If the sinus conditions last over twelve years, they can become chronic sinusitis. It is a type of infection where the basic symptoms are nasal congestion, facial pain, or reduced olfactory senses. There are multiple over-the-counter medicines, antibiotics, and even non-surgical treatments available that can help you to get a cure. However, there are also chances that chronic sinusitis has become quite severe, and the only way to treat it is to get surgery. So, let’s get to understand when you should opt for surgery so that you can make an informed decision for yourself.

When is Sinus Surgery Recommended?

A sinus specialist would recommend surgery only in exceptional circumstances, such as:

• Chronic Sinusitis Unresponsive to Medical Treatment

When comprehensive medical therapy fails, such as antibiotics, nasal corticosteroids, and saline irrigations, the healthcare specialist may suggest surgery. This approach will help restore normal sinus function.

• Nasal Polyps

If a non-cancerous growth in the nasal passage is obstructing the airflow, such as nasal polyps, then surgery is recommended. This can also lead to breathing difficulties, loss of smell, or recurrence of infections. So, if these conditions are not treatable with medication, surgery is the only way out.

• Structural Abnormalities

If you have a deviated ear septum or a nasal bone spur that is impeding sinus discharge, you may develop chronic infections. To address the structural problem, corrective surgery is prescribed, which also helps to facilitate better airflow.

• Fungal Infections

If the sinus does not respond to standard treatment and has been offered due to a fungal infection, the fungal debris and infected tissue must be removed. In these cases, a specialist associated with https://drkhliment.com.sg/sinus-specialist-singapore-sinusitis-surgery-treatment would suggest surgical intervention for a complete cure. 

• Sinus Tumors

If the health care specialist, after a complete diagnosis and imaging test, concludes that the infection is caused by tumors in the sinus, then the only way to remove them is surgical. Otherwise, it can lead to obstructions and other complications. 

Types of Sinus Surgery

Below are the most common types:

• Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

It is the most common surgical procedure in which an endoscope is used to remove obstructive tissue or bone. Due to its minimally invasive nature, it has a shorter recovery time.

• Balloon Sinuplasty

If you are looking for a less invasive option in which a small balloon is inserted to eliminate the sinus passage blockage, this method would be the best fit.

• Caldwell-Luc Operation

If the other two surgeries fail to provide a successful outcome, this surgery is used. In this procedure, a new opening is created from the maxillary sinus towards the nasal cavity. This procedure ensures an improved drainage facility of the sinus.

Final Words

When sinus surgery is prescribed, its primary goal is to alleviate symptoms such as congested sinus drainage, difficulty breathing, other chronic infection symptoms, and more. The surgery is also aimed at enhancing the quality of a patient’s life. It also reduces the severity and recurrence of infection and restores the senses of smell and taste. However, it is also recommended to consider the associated risks, so a complete health check-up is necessary before you opt for the surgery.