Do you suffer from chronic sinusitis? Are you known for you allergies and constantly stuffed up nose? Are the fall and spring just miserable?

Then you might be a candidate for endoscopic sinus surgery.

This quick and, relatively, painless surgery has been shown to correct chronic sinusitis in 90 out of 100 adults.

The Procedure

This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting under general or local anesthesia. It typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes. The surgery itself is relatively straightforward. An endoscope is inserted into the nose, letting the doctor see the patient’s sinuses. Other instruments such as scalpels, lasers and burrs are used to remove blockages, tissue, polyps and bone that might be blocking the sinuses.

Once the blockages are removed, the nose is packed with gauze and you are typically sent home with orders to rest and heal.

After Surgery

A full recovery can take up to three weeks after surgery. During that time, you might experience some discomfort and bleeding while your sinuses heal. During the recovery period, you make be asked to:

• Take your antibiotics as ordered.
• Use a steroidal nasal spray to reduce inflammation.
• Irrigate your nasal passages with a saline solution to keep them moist while they heal.
• Refrain from blowing your nose, performing strenuous exercise or bend forward for several days. This is to prevent excessive nosebleeds.
• Make use of a humidifier to keep the air in your room moist while you sleep.

What Are the Risks?

Endoscopic surgery is a very safe procedure. Now, as with any surgery, there are risks, but the chance of any major complications is less than 1 out of 100 patients. For many patients, the surgery is worth it, and they report a great increase in quality of life. They breathe better. They sleep better. They have more energy. They no longer dread and fear allergy season.

If you’re considering endoscopic surgery to alleviate chronic sinusitis, please consider OSE. Call us today to arrange a consultation.