What are the Benefits of Surgery?

The aim is to widen the passage between the sinus and your nose so that mucus no longer becomes trapped. This should prevent the sinusitis from coming back but your sense of smell may not improve.

Are There any Alternatives to Surgery?

Antibiotics may help to clear the infection.

If your sinusitis is caused by an allergy, you may be able to prevent sinusitis by avoiding the ‘triggers’ of your allergy or by taking medication such as antihistamines.

If you use a nasal steroid spray for a long time, you can reduce the size of polyps (small growths which usually make the symptoms worse).

What Does the Operation Involve?

This ENT operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic but a local anaesthetic can be used. The operation usually takes one to two hours.

Endoscopic sinus surgery is performed through your nostrils and does not result in any facial scars or change to the outside shape of your nose.

Your surgeon will use a telescope to examine your nasal passages. They will use instruments to remove any polyps and to widen the passages from your sinuses into your nose.

What Complications can Happen?

General Complications

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection of the surgical site (wound)
• Blood clots

Specific Complications

• Damage to the bone around your eye
• Blindness
• Leak of fluid from your brain
• Double vision

Sinusitis is not usually serious but it can cause unpleasant symptoms. If medication does not help, endoscopic sinus surgery should help prevent the sinusitis from coming back.

If you would like to receive more information on Private Endoscopic Sinus Surgery at New Victoria Hospital, call us on 020 8949 9020 or fill in our online form.