Sinus Surgery (FESS)

The sinuses are air spaces around the nose. When their openings are blocked by swelling or polyps, mucus collects and leads to repeated infections, blocked nose, facial pain and headaches.

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) uses a thin telescope passed through the nostrils to open the blocked sinus passages and remove polyps, with no cuts on the face. Our ENT department also treats a deviated nasal septum and nasal allergies.

• Chronic sinusitis lasting more than 12 weeks despite treatment
• Nasal polyps
• Repeated sinus infections
• Deviated septum causing blockage (often corrected at the same time)

• Better breathing through the nose
• Fewer sinus infections and headaches
• Improved sense of smell for many patients
• No external cuts or facial scars

Before the procedure

A nasal endoscopy and a CT scan of the sinuses are done to plan the surgery. A course of medicines is usually tried first.

During the procedure

Under general anaesthesia, the surgeon uses an endoscope and fine instruments through the nostrils to widen the sinus openings and remove diseased tissue.

After the procedure

Mild nasal blockage and blood-stained discharge are common for a few days. You may go home the same or the next day.

Most people return to work within a week.

• Use saline nasal washes as advised
• Avoid blowing your nose hard and heavy exercise for a week or two
• Attend follow-up for cleaning of the nose