2024-01-01 · sinus, ent, surgery
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery FAQ
What Is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera (endoscope) and specialized instruments to open blocked sinus passages. The goal is to restore normal drainage and airflow, reduce inflammation, and improve chronic sinus symptoms.
Who Might Need FESS?
FESS is commonly considered when sinus problems persist despite medical therapy. Typical reasons include:
- Chronic sinusitis that does not respond to antibiotics, nasal sprays, or saline rinses
- Nasal polyps that obstruct sinus drainage
- Recurrent sinus infections with imaging that shows blockage
- Fungal sinus infections or sinus cysts
- Structural issues that contribute to poor drainage
What Symptoms Often Lead to Surgery?
Symptoms that may prompt evaluation for FESS include:
- Facial pressure or pain
- Persistent nasal congestion or blockage
- Thick nasal drainage or postnasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Headaches or pressure that worsens with sinus infections
About the FESS Procedure
FESS is usually performed under general anesthesia and often takes one to two hours depending on how many sinuses are treated. The surgeon guides an endoscope through the nostrils to remove inflamed tissue, polyps, or bone that blocks drainage pathways. Because there are no external incisions, most patients have less swelling and a faster recovery compared with open surgery.
What Happens After FESS?
Most patients go home the same day. Common post-operative care includes:
- Saline irrigations to keep the sinuses clean
- Nasal sprays or medications to reduce inflammation
- Follow-up visits for gentle in-office cleaning
Mild bleeding, congestion, and fatigue are typical in the first week.
How Long Is Recovery?
Recovery varies, but many patients can return to light activities within a few days. In general:
- Nasal congestion and drainage improve over one to two weeks
- Normal daily activities often resume within one to two weeks
- Full healing of the sinus lining can take several weeks
Your surgeon will provide personalized guidance based on the extent of surgery.
What Are the Risks or Complications?
FESS is considered safe, but potential risks include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Scar tissue or recurrent blockage
- Changes in smell
- Rare injury to nearby structures such as the eye or skull base
Following post-operative instructions helps reduce these risks.
When Should I Call My Surgeon?
Contact your care team if you experience:
- Heavy or persistent bleeding
- Fever, worsening facial pain, or signs of infection
- Vision changes, severe headache, or clear fluid drainage
- Symptoms that are not improving as expected
Prompt evaluation ensures safe healing and the best outcome.