Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in India

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and other conditions blocking normal sinus drainage, when these haven't responded adequately to medication such as nasal sprays, antibiotics, or allergy treatment. Working entirely through the nostrils with a thin endoscope and small instruments, no external incisions are needed.

What the surgery involves

The surgeon guides an endoscope through the nose to get a clear view of the sinus passages, then uses specialised instruments to carefully remove blockages, such as swollen tissue, nasal polyps, or scar tissue, and widen the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses. The goal is to restore normal sinus ventilation and drainage, not to remove healthy tissue.

How extensive the surgery needs to be

The extent of surgery depends on how many sinuses are affected and how severe the blockage or polyps are, ranging from a more limited procedure addressing the main affected sinuses to more extensive surgery opening multiple or all sinus groups. Your surgeon determines the right extent based on your CT scan and endoscopic examination, which is why cost and recovery can vary between patients with the same general diagnosis.

Balloon sinuplasty as an alternative or addition

Balloon sinuplasty is a related technique that uses a small balloon to gently widen sinus openings, similar in concept to balloon angioplasty for blocked arteries, and can be used on its own for milder cases or alongside traditional FESS instruments for a more complete procedure. It's generally associated with less tissue removal and can suit certain patients well, though not every case is suited to a balloon-only approach.

Nasal packing and immediate aftercare

At the end of surgery, the surgeon may place soft nasal packing or splints to support healing and reduce bleeding, typically removed within a few days to about a week. You'll be given specific guidance on caring for your nose during this period, including keeping your head elevated and avoiding nose blowing, which supports proper healing of the sinus passages.