Does Sinus Surgery Really Work?
If you are a sinusitis sufferer, you know how miserable and cumbersome constant congestion and stuffiness can be. For many people who suffer from chronic sinusitis, or the inflammation of the nose and sinuses that lasts over 6 weeks, prescription medicine can solve the problem. If your symptoms are alleviated by a treatment that involves steroids, antibiotics, nasal spray, or other prescription medications, you probably do not need sinus surgery.
What if my symptoms don’t go away?
Sinus surgery can be a great option for people whose condition is lasting, doesn’t respond to medication, or those who have nasal polyps, septal deviation, or swollen turbinates. Your ENT (ear nose and throat doctor) will usually do a CT scan of your sinuses if your condition doesn’t improve after 4 to 6 weeks.
How is the surgery performed?
In the past, sinus surgery was a complicated and uncomfortable process. Today, it is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a tool called a nasal endoscope. This small, lighted metal telescope goes inside the patient’s nostril and allows the surgeon to see inside the nose and sinuses. This procedure causes minimal discomfort, few complications, and usually allows a patient to return to work after a few days.
What types of surgery are there?
Marvel offers three different types: Balloon Sinuplasty, which opens and reshapes sinus passages; Endoscopic Septoplasty, which corrects a deviated septum; and Turbinate Reduction, which shrinks swollen turbinates that may cause pressure, congestion, and breathing difficulty. To learn more about each surgery, visit here.
Does it really work?
Most people who have endoscopic sinus surgery report significant symptom improvement, and do extremely well post-op. Your doctor will never suggest sinus surgery unless it is absolutely necessary, and all other options have been exhausted for your specific condition. Sinus surgery can alleviate uncomfortable symptoms and bring relief that many view as life changing. For more information about sinus surgery or to find out if it is right for you, call Marvel at 1-931-455-2005.
