When Is Sinus Surgery Necessary?

What Is Sinusitis and Why Does It Occur?
 

Sinusitis is an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) condition caused by inflammation of the sinus cavities around the nose, which can significantly reduce quality of life. Sinuses normally produce mucus that drains through the nasal passages. When these drainage pathways become blocked, mucus accumulates, leading to infection.

Sinusitis is classified as acute, subacute, and chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis, in particular, may cause long-term symptoms and often requires surgical treatment.

Common Symptoms of Sinusitis
 

Symptoms vary depending on the duration and severity of the condition. The most common complaints include:

• Pressure and pain around the face, forehead, and eyes
• Persistent nasal congestion
• Yellow or green nasal discharge
• Postnasal drip
• Reduced sense of smell
• Headaches and fatigue

If these symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, chronic sinusitis is suspected.

When Is Sinus Surgery Recommended?
 

Sinus surgery is not necessary for every patient. Surgery is usually considered in the following situations:

• No improvement despite long-term medical treatment
• Recurrent sinus infections occurring several times a year
• Presence of anatomical nasal problems
• Complete blockage of the sinus drainage pathways

At this stage, an ENT specialist evaluates the need for surgery through endoscopic examination and imaging studies.

Treatment Options for Sinusitis
 

Before surgery is considered, the following treatments are usually applied:

• Medical therapy (antibiotics, corticosteroid nasal sprays)
• Nasal irrigation solutions
• Allergy treatments

When surgery is required, the most commonly used methods include:

Endoscopic sinus surgery

Balloon sinuplasty

Septoplasty (if a deviated septum is present)

Turbinate surgery (for enlarged nasal turbinates)

These procedures are minimally invasive and typically offer a fast recovery.

Success Rates of Sinus Surgery
 

With proper patient selection and an experienced ENT surgeon, sinus surgery has high success rates. Clinical data show that:

• 85–90% of patients experience significant symptom relief
• Nasal congestion and facial pain are greatly reduced
• Overall quality of life improves considerably
   

Recovery After Sinus Surgery

Most patients are discharged the same day or the day after surgery. During the first few weeks:

• Mild bleeding and crusting may occur
• Regular nasal irrigation is recommended
• Strenuous physical activity should be avoided

Full recovery varies from person to person but is usually completed within a few weeks.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate?
 

• Patients with only acute sinusitis
• Those who respond well to medical treatment
• Individuals whose general health condition is not suitable for surgery

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