Sinus Surgery

Sinus Surgery | Chestnut Hill | Boston

Sinus and nasal surgery is performed to enlarge the openings that drain the sinuses, in order to effectively treat conditions such as nasal congestion, rhinitis, sinusitis, polyps and others. Patients may turn to surgery after other treatments such as medications, nasal sprays and humidifiers have been unsuccessful in relieving symptoms, or for chronic, recurring conditions.

The symptoms of sinus problems can vary widely depending on the type and severity of each patient’s condition, but often significantly affect a patient’s quality of life. Common symptoms include:

  • Facial pain and pressure
  • Mucous discharge
  • Nasal obstruction
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Congestion
  • Vision disturbances

There are several different types of sinus surgery, most of which can be performed through minimally invasive techniques that require no incisions and no hospital stay. Some of the most commonly performed procedures include functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), image-guided surgery, the Caldwell Luc operation and Balloon Sinuplasty.

Most sinus and nasal surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis under general or local anesthesia. Patients may experience mild bruising, swelling and discomfort after surgery, but are usually able to recover quickly with no lasting side effects. Our Boston ENT doctor will decide which procedure is best for you after a thorough evaluation of your individual condition.

Balloon Sinuplasty

Balloon sinuplasty is an advanced surgical procedure used to treat sinusitis and other related problems through minimally invasive techniques. This involves inserting a thin endoscope into the nose without disrupting the surrounding bone and tissue. A small balloon is then gently inflated to widen blocked passageways and allow for proper drainage of sinus fluid. Patients can benefit from less bleeding and shorter recovery times with balloon sinuplasty.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Endoscopic sinus surgery involves inserting a thin, lighted tube with a camera on the end into the nose so that your doctor can visually examine the area. Tiny surgical instruments are then inserted to remove the obstructive tissues. Endoscopic sinus surgery does not require any incision, as the whole procedure is performed through the nostrils.

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is the most common type of surgery for chronic sinusitis performed today. FESS is performed using a small endoscope inserted through the nostril. This minimally invasive procedure has significantly improved the results of sinus surgery. Advantages of FESS include a shorter recovery time, reduced risk of infection, decreased postoperative pain, and less scarring.

Image-Guided Surgery

Imaged-guided sinus and nasal surgery combines endoscopic techniques with a CT imaging scan for even more precise results. The CT scan is performed simultaneously during surgery to guide your surgeon to the targeted area within your sinuses where blockage or infection occurs. It can help create a computerized model of the skull.

During this procedure, blockages or obstructions within the sinuses are cleared using tiny surgical instruments. Patients can benefit from faster recovery times, less discomfort and more accurate correction of sinus problems with this advanced procedure.

Caldwell-Luc Operation

The Caldwell-Luc procedure is ideal for clearing blockages within the maxillary sinus. It involves entering the sinuses through the mouth after an incision is made in the gums above the canine teeth. A small part of the maxillary bone is removed during this procedure in order to improve drainage within the sinuses.

Named after Dr. George Caldwell and Dr. Henry Luc, this procedure was more common before endoscopic techniques were developed. The Caldwell-Luc procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and may cause swelling, bruising and numbness after surgery. There are no scars associated with this procedure, since incisions are made within the mouth.

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1244 Boylston St
Suite 303
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

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Phone: (617) 383-6800
Fax: (617) 383-6801
Audiology: (617) 383-6830
Surgical Scheduling: (617) 383-6846