The sinuses are four pairs of cavities located behind the cheeks, nose and forehead. They are lined with mucus that traps and flushes out debris, including bacteria. Sometimes, the sinuses are shaped in a way that doesn’t allow fluid to drain or are susceptible to problems like thickened lining, polyps or repeated infections. When this happens, surgery may be necessary.
Types of Sinus Surgery
There are different types of sinus surgery depending on what exactly the problem is. These include:
- Functional endoscopic surgery.
- Turbinate reduction surgery.
- Balloon sinuplasty.
- Sinus ostial dilation surgery.
How Sinus Surgery Is Performed
How the surgery is performed depends on what surgery you get. However, the basic steps include the following:
- First you will be placed under local or general anesthesia.
- Next a small scope will be inserted into the sinuses through the nose so the surgeon can see what’s going on during the surgery.
- Then the surgeon will remove any blockages, sections of bone or polyps that are causing problems.
- During some procedures, a balloon is inserted and inflated to clear blockages away, and the sinuses are flushed with a saline solution.
- Finally the doctor will remove all the instruments and pack the nose and to prevent bleeding.
Preparing for Sinus Surgery
For about a week leading up to the procedure, you should avoid over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin to prevent bleeding. Talk to your doctor about all the medications you take so they can advise which are safe to continue.
Recovering from Sinus Surgery
You can go home the same day as your surgery unless there are complications. Be sure to arrange a ride home.
Your doctor will prescribe a pain medication that is safe to take after your surgery. They may also prescribe a corticosteroid. Take all medications as directed to prevent complications.
You should also keep your sinus passages moistened with a saline spray for several weeks following surgery to prevent blood from crusting and blocking the sinuses while they heal. To enjoy symptom-free trips to Out of Eden Landscaping and Garden Center, treatment for your chronic sinusitis is key.
For more information about sinus surgery or to schedule an appointment with a sinus expert, call Foothills ENT today.