Overview of Nasal & Sinus Surgery

Nasal and sinus surgeries have been around for years to help alleviate nasal and sinus problems and improve our overall well-being. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including allergies, infections, tumors, and obstruction of the airways. The most common types of nasal and sinus surgeries include septoplasty, rhinoplasty, endoscopic sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty, and turbinate reduction. These procedures can provide a variety of benefits such as improved quality of life, better breathing, and reduced risk of infection. Each type of surgery has its own advantages depending on the individual case.

Sinus Surgery Procedures

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is also a minimally invasive procedure used to unblock sinus openings for patients with serious sinus conditions. Instead of making incisions, healthcare providers use nasal endoscopes to ease symptoms. The procedure aims to restore how the sinuses function. It may be recommended if chronic sinus inflammation or infections persist, and medical treatments like antibiotics and allergy medications have failed. FESS is generally safe and effective, and 80% to 90% of patients report improvement in their sinus issues after the surgery. Most people are able to return to work and begin their normal daily activities within a week after sinus surgery. With the exception of some settings like school, work, or sports, you can usually resume your normal activities right away.

Balloon sinuplasty

Another minimally invasive technique to treat chronic sinusitis or recurrent sinus infections is balloon sinuplasty. This procedure requires a small balloon to be placed through the nose to dilate the sinus openings. It is a suitable option for patients who can tolerate the procedure under local anesthesia and have an affected area in specific sinuses, such as those in the cheeks, forehead, or back of the nose. Unlike other sinus procedures, such as endoscopic sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty does not require cutting of the sinus tissue. The patients can expect mild discomfort in the nose and nasal area, which can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications.

Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that can help to straighten the bone and cartilage in the space between the nostrils, improve breathing, reduce snoring. In some cases, it can also improve the appearance of your nose by correcting any asymmetries caused by the deviated septum. A deviated septum is a condition where the nasal septum (the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils) is off-center or crooked causing difficulty breathing through the nose due to the air passage being smaller on one side. During the procedure, the surgeon will straighten and reposition the septum, which can help to improve breathing and reduce the risk of complications. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of the surgery before scheduling the procedure.

Turbinate reduction

Turbinate surgery, or inferior turbinate reduction, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or reducing the size of the turbinates, which are structures in the nose that help filter and humidify air as it passes through. The surgery is typically done to treat chronic nasal congestion or breathing difficulties caused by enlarged or swollen turbinates. The procedure can be performed using several different techniques, including radiofrequency ablation, microdebrider submucosal resection, or traditional surgical techniques. It is usually performed under general anesthesia and has a relatively short recovery period. Overall, inferior turbinate surgery can be an effective way to improve nasal breathing and quality of life for those with chronic congestion or other nasal issues.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping the nose. It can be done for aesthetic reasons, such as improving the appearance of the nose, or for functional reasons, such as correcting breathing problems. The procedure involves making small incisions in the nose and manipulating the bone and cartilage to achieve the desired result. Recovery time varies, but patients typically experience some swelling and discomfort for a few weeks after surgery.

Conclusion

Patients suffering from chronic sinusitis or other related conditions that do not respond to allergy treatments or antibiotics could find relief through nasal and sinus surgery. With FESS, surgeons use an endoscope to remove obstructions and polyps. Septoplasty realigns a crooked septum, and turbinate reduction reduces blockages caused by inflammation. Balloon sinuplasty uses a catheter with an inflated balloon to open blocked sinuses while rhinoplasty reshapes the nose. These procedures enhance ventilation and drainage, allowing for better medication delivery and the removal of scar tissue, bacteria, and tumors. It's important to do your research and find a qualified, experienced surgeon to ensure the best outcome.

Looking for top-notch nose care? ENT Care Centers is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for all your ENT needs. Whether you're experiencing allergies, sinus issues, or other nasal concerns, our specialists are well-equipped to help. Call us at (502) 837-7838 or visit our website to schedule an appointment with one of their Ear, Nose & Throat Doctors in Louisville, KY and southern Indiana today!