At ENT Carolina, we offer Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), a procedure designed to treat chronic sinusitis and abnormal sinus structures.

Our expert ENT surgeons are here to guide you through every step of the process, from the first consultation to recovery, ensuring you receive proper care.

What is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat chronic sinus problems that don’t respond well to other treatments. It involves using an endoscope—a thintube with a camera and light attached—to access and treat the sinuses. This allows our ENT specialists to visualize and clear blocked sinus passages without the need for large incisions by working through your nostrils, which leads to a faster recovery and less discomfort.

 

Schedule an appointment to discuss FESS.

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What Happens During a FESS Procedure?

During a FESS procedure in our locations, the surgeon uses an endoscope to carefully examine the sinuses and remove any obstructions or abnormal tissues, which may include thickened mucus, polyps, or damaged tissue. The functional endoscopic sinus surgery procedure involves:

  1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure they remain comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
  2. Incisions: There are no external incisions or scars following sinus surgery.
  3. Examination: An endoscope is used to carefully examine the sinuses for any blockages or abnormal tissue.
  4. Removal of Obstructions: The surgeon removes any obstructions, such as thickened mucus, polyps, or damaged tissue, to clear the sinus passages.
  5. Post-Surgery: Once the sinuses are cleared, proper drainage is restored, significantly reducing the risk of future sinus infections. Most of the time, future visits are needed and medications such as nasal sprays and rinses to keep the problems from coming back.

Why Do You Need Sinus Surgery?

Sinus surgery is necessary for chronic sinus issues that don’t respond to medication, such as nasal polyps (non-cancerous growths), frequent infections, or issues like tumors or abnormal cells that affect sinus function. In many patients, chronic sinusitis can be linked to untreated or recurring allergies, which cause ongoing inflammation and congestion. Sinussurgery removes blockages, enlarges sinus openings, and restores proper drainage, improving airflow and easing symptoms like congestion, pressure, and loss of smell.

Benefits of Sinus Surgery

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) offers numerous benefits for patients as it not only provides relief from symptoms but also helps improve overall sinus health. Here are some of the key advantages of FESS ENT surgery:

  • Minimally invasive: No incisions and quicker recovery.
  • Reduced sinusitis symptoms: Relieves congestion, pressure, and facial pain.
  • Enhanced sinus drainage: Clears blocked sinus passages for better drainage.
  • Fewer complications: Lower risk compared to traditional surgery.
  • Less pain: A more comfortable recovery process.
  • Less tissue removal: Preserves healthy tissue while addressing problem areas.
  • Improved sense of smell: Restores the ability to smell by clearing blocked passages.
  • Enhanced sleep quality: Reduces sleep apnea and snoring by opening airways.
  • Improved airflow: Eases breathing by opening nasal passages.

Common Conditions Treated by FESS

Some of the most common conditions treated by FESS include:

Chronic Sinus Infections

Recurrent or persistent sinus infections, often caused by blocked sinus passages, can be debilitating and may lead to chronic ENT discomfort, such as postnasal drip, facial pressure, nasal congestion, and persistent irritation. FESS surgery is an effective solution for individuals who have frequent sinus infections that don't improve with antibiotics or other treatments.

Abnormal Sinus Structures

Some patients have abnormal sinus structures, such as a deviated septum or polyps, which can block normal sinus drainage. Sinus surgery helps correct these structural issues, allowing the sinuses to function properly.

Growths in the Sinus or Nasal Cavity

Polyps or other growths can develop in the sinuses, blocking airflow and causing chronic symptoms. FESS can remove these growths and restore normal sinus function, reducing symptoms like facial pain, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing.

How Long Does the FESS Procedure Take?

The FESS procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can usually go home the same day, though some cases may require an overnight stay for monitoring.

What is the Difference Between Balloon Sinuplasty vs. FESS Surgery?

While both balloon sinuplasty and FESS surgery are used to treat sinus issues, the main difference lies in the approach. Balloon sinuplasty uses a small balloon to open up blocked sinus passages, whereas FESS surgery involves the removal of tissue and debris to allow the sinuses to drain properly. Balloon sinuplasty is less invasive and generally used for less severe cases, while FESS surgery is often recommended for more complex or chronic conditions.

What to Expect After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

After endoscopic sinus surgery, patients typically experience some swelling and nasal congestion. The FESS surgery recovery time is relatively short, with most patients feeling significantly better within 7 to 10 days. However, full recovery may take several weeks, during which time you will need to follow post-op care instructions carefully, these may include:

  • Using saline nasal sprays to keep the sinuses moist
  • Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks
  • Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Though rare, infections can occur after any surgery, including FESS. Be on the lookout for signs of infection after sinus surgery, such as increased pain or swelling, fever, pus or thick discharge from the nose, and contact your doctor if it happens.

FESS Surgery Recovery

The endoscopic sinus surgery recovery period is generally shorter than most other operations, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for the best results. Most patients can return to work and regular activities within 1-2 weeks, though some may need more time to fully recover.

Schedule Your FESS Surgery at ENT Carolina

At ENT Carolina, our experienced surgeons specialize in endoscopic sinus surgery. If you’re struggling with chronic sinus issues and other treatments haven’t worked, FESS surgery may be the right solution for you. Schedule an appointment with our ENT doctors today, or take advantage of our walk-in clinics at our Gastonia, Shelby, and Belmont locations. Before your visit, you can review our insurance information to confirm coverage for your procedure.