Sinus Surgery: What It Is, Who Needs It, and What to Expect
When sinus surgery, a procedure to open blocked sinus passages and improve drainage. Also known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery, it's not a last resort—it’s often the most effective fix for people stuck in a cycle of recurring infections and nasal congestion. If you’ve tried antibiotics, nasal sprays, and steam rinses but still feel pressure behind your eyes, struggle to breathe through your nose, or lose your sense of smell, surgery might be the missing piece.
Sinus surgery isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s commonly used for chronic sinus infection, inflammation lasting 12 weeks or longer despite treatment, or when nasal polyps, noncancerous growths that block airflow and trap mucus keep coming back. These aren’t just annoyances—they can lead to sleep apnea, ear infections, and even asthma flare-ups. The goal of surgery isn’t to remove everything, but to restore natural drainage so your body can heal itself.
Most sinus surgeries today are done with an endoscope—a thin camera inserted through the nostrils. No external cuts. No overnight stays. Recovery takes about a week for most people, though full healing can take a few months. You’ll still need to rinse your nose, avoid heavy lifting, and follow up with your doctor, but the difference in breathing and energy levels? Many say it’s life-changing.
It’s not a cure-all. If your sinus issues are tied to allergies, immune problems, or environmental triggers, surgery alone won’t fix it. That’s why it’s often paired with ongoing care—like allergy shots, steroid sprays, or even lifestyle changes. But for those who’ve been told they’ll "just have to live with it," surgery gives back control. The posts below cover real cases: how people prepared, what went wrong (and right), and how other treatments like antibiotics or nasal irrigation fit into the bigger picture. You’ll find what works, what doesn’t, and how to talk to your doctor about whether this is right for you.
Chronic Sinusitis: Managing Allergies, Infections, and When Surgery Helps
Chronic sinusitis lasts more than 12 weeks and isn't just a bad cold. Learn how allergies, nasal polyps, and structural issues cause it-and what actually works, from saline rinses to biologic drugs and surgery.
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