What Is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a surgical procedure to treat chronic sinusitis. It uses an endoscope equipped with a tiny camera to visualize and widen the sinuses’ natural drainage pathways, facilitating better drainage and reducing the likelihood of blockage.
Why Would My ENT Recommend Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?
Endoscopic sinus surgery is recommended for patients who suffer from chronic or recurrent sinusitis or sinus infections and do not respond to other treatments. While antibiotics, allergy treatments, nasal sprays, or saline irrigation may work for some, surgery becomes necessary when these methods are ineffective. The primary goals of FESS are to alleviate nasal airway obstruction and reduce inflammation.
When Should I Consider Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
Consider endoscopic sinus surgery if:
- You have persistent sinusitis that does not improve with medical treatments.
- Your sinusitis symptoms significantly affect your quality of life.
- You experience frequent sinus infections that require repeated courses of antibiotics.
- Nasal obstructions or polyps are identified as contributing to your symptoms.
How Is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Performed?
Endoscopic sinus surgery expands the sinus drainage passages using a minimally invasive approach without external incisions. This method minimizes tissue trauma and recovery time while effectively addressing chronic sinusitis symptoms.
The Procedure
- Preparation: The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.
- Endoscopic Access: A small fiber-optic endoscope is inserted through the nostrils to access the sinus cavities.
- Drainage Pathways: The surgeon uses specialized instruments to remove obstructive tissues, such as mucus membranes or polyps, ensuring the sinuses can drain properly.
The entire procedure typically lasts 1-3 hours, depending on the extent of the blockage and inflammation.
What Should I Expect After Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
Endoscopic sinus surgery is usually conducted as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day. Here’s what to expect post-surgery:
Immediate Recovery
- Recovery Time: Patients will remain in the recovery area for about an hour after the surgery.
- Nosebleeds: Minor nosebleeds are typical for a few days post-surgery. Nose packing may be used to reduce bleeding.
- Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual for up to two weeks is typical.
- Congestion: Temporary congestion is expected and typically resolves within one to two weeks.
Postoperative Care
Patients will receive detailed postoperative instructions at home after their endoscopic sinus surgery. These instructions are crucial for a smooth recovery and to prevent complications. Always contact your ENT specialist with any questions or concerns during recovery.
How Long Will the Results of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Last?
Endoscopic sinus surgery provides long-term benefits for many patients. Studies indicate that symptom relief can last up to a year or more post-surgery. However, several factors can influence the likelihood of recurrence, including the patient’s general health and immune system strength, environment, exposure to allergens or pollutants, or other medical conditions that affect their sinus health.
Discuss potential outcomes and strategies to prolong the benefits of your functional endoscopic sinus surgery with your ENT & Allergy Centers of Texas provider.
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Doctors in Texas
If you’re considering Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery or have questions about the procedure, please call our office or schedule an appointment online. Visit one of our eight convenient North Texas locations to learn more about how FESS can help improve your sinus health and overall quality of life. Our board-certified ENT Doctors serve McKinney, Frisco, Plano, Allen, Carrollton, Flower Mound, Lewisville, and Celina, TX.
