If you experience congestion, runny nose, facial pain/pressure and a cough after visiting Home Depot, you may be suffering from a sinus infection. Chronic sinus infections are just one reason you may need to undergo sinus surgery. Below we review the common types of sinus surgery, how sinus surgery is performed, how to prepare for sinus surgery and what the recovery process is like.
Types of Sinus Surgery
Some of the most popular types of sinus surgery include:
- Functional endoscopic surgery
- Balloon sinuplasty
- Sinus ostial dilation surgery
- Turbinate reduction surgery
How Sinus Surgery Is Performed
The steps of the procedure will differ depending on which type of sinus surgery you get. However, the procedure will follow these general phases:
- First, you’ll be placed under either local or general anesthesia.
- Second, a small lighted scope will be advanced through the nose into the sinuses so the doctor can see what they’re doing.
- Third, the doctor will remove blockages, polyps or sections of bone to open up the sinus passageways.
- For balloon or dilation surgery, a balloon catheter will be advanced and inflated, then the sinuses will be irrigated with saline solution.
- Finally, the doctor will remove all the instruments and you’ll be moved to a recovery room.
Preparing for Sinus Surgery
Avoid over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin for at least a week leading up to surgery to reduce risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor before surgery about all the medications you take so they can advise which are safe to continue.
You should also arrange a ride to and from the procedure, especially if you’re being put under general anesthesia.
Recovering from Sinus Surgery
For a week after surgery, avoid physical activity that elevates your blood pressure, like weight lifting and running.
Take all medications as directed, which may include prescription pain relievers and corticosteroids. Keep the nasal passages moistened with saline spray to prevent blood from crusting and blocking the sinuses.
As with any surgery, you should follow all your doctor’s postoperative instructions carefully and bring up any questions or concerns you may have.
For more information about sinus surgery or to schedule an appointment with a sinus expert, call Camino Ear, Nose & Throat today.
