Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: 5 Questions Patients Ask Before Scheduling

Posted on by Ear, Nose & Throat Associates

Endoscopic sinus surgery, also called a functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), is a minimally invasive procedure to treat sinus conditions. Let’s take a look at five common questions patients ask before scheduling or undergoing FESS.

1. Why Do ENT Specialists Recommend FESS? 

Woman holding her nose and head because sinus pain.

ENT specialists recommend FESS to treat sinus conditions, including but not limited to:

Your specialist will start with an exam to determine the underlying cause of your sinus symptoms (congestion, facial pressure, etc.) before recommending FESS. 

2. What Does the Procedure Look Like?

Your sinus specialist will use an endoscope (a thin tube with a light and camera) and surgical tools to perform FESS. While the steps may vary by patient, your procedure will likely include the following:

  1. General anesthesia will put you to sleep
  2. The specialist will apply a decongestant to clear the sinuses
  3. They will inject a numbing solution and insert the endoscope
  4. They will use the endoscope and surgical tools to remove bone, tissue or polyps

Your specialist may insert padding in the nose to absorb blood. After the surgery, you will recover at the clinic while the anesthesia wears off.

3. Do I Need a Ride Home From the Surgery?

You should schedule a ride home from surgery because the anesthesia is likely to make you groggy.

4. How Long Does FESS Recovery Take?

It can take a few months to recover from FESS completely, but most patients resume their routine about two weeks after the surgery. You can go back to work or school in about a week, as long as you don’t do any heavy lifting or play sports.

5. Can I Speed Up FESS Recovery?

You can’t speed up recovery, but following care instructions can help promote healthy healing. Post-op instructions may include:

  • Don’t blow your nose for a week
  • Sneeze with your mouth open
  • Rinse your sinuses with saline
  • Avoid strenuous activities for about two weeks

Schedule Your Appointment

If you’re dealing with recurring or long-lasting sinus issues, contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today to discuss whether endoscopic sinus surgery is right for you.