There are two primary types of Santa Monica sinus surgery, endoscopic surgery, and balloon sinuplasty.
Endoscopic sinus surgery is a common technique in which tiny flexible tubes are inserted into the nasal cavity. One endoscope holds a camera through which the internal nasal structures can be observed. Others may be inserted to remove polyps or otherwise correct the internal aspects of the nose. Endoscopy is considered minimally invasive because no incisions are made in the nose. Because instruments are inserted through the nostrils, endoscopic sinus surgery may be conducted with a local anesthetic rather than general anesthesia.
Balloon sinuplasty, also called balloon sinus dilation, is also a minimally invasive technique that is commonly performed to correct a blockage in the nasal cavity. Like endoscopy, balloon sinuplasty does not require incisions or general anesthesia.
How Do I Know If I Need Sinus Surgery Or Not?
Sinus problems usually resolve within a week or two with appropriate remedies or medical treatment. When they don’t, it may be beneficial to consider the value of sinus surgery. Chronic sinus problems are only the first indication that surgery may be advisable, though.
A Santa Monica ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor will perform a thorough consultation, medical history review, and evaluation that may include diagnostic imaging such as a CT scan of the sinuses.
This initial process provides the doctor with details that facilitate the most accurate diagnosis and originating cause of symptoms. Chronic sinusitis may result from allergies, infection, polyps, or other conditions.
Before recommending surgery, it is likely that an ENT will first advise relevant medical therapy such as allergy treatments, antibiotics, steroid nasal spray, or other modalities.
Am I A Candidate For Sinus Surgery?
You may be a good candidate for surgery if you suffer from chronic or recurring sinus allergies or sinusitis related to infection. You may benefit from sinus surgery if you have nasal polyps that are making it difficult to breathe or if your symptoms are not well-managed using medical therapies such as antibiotics, nasal sprays, and other strategies. Call today to schedule an appointment at either our Santa Monica or Torrance location.
What Can I Expect From Sinus Surgery?
Patients who undergo sinus surgery can expect a significant improvement in breathing, comfort, and quality of life. Depending on the type of surgery that is performed, a patient may also expect their recovery to occur gradually over a few weeks.
After surgery, it is not uncommon to encounter fatigue, the need for prescription antibiotics or steroids, and packing, in some cases. However, if your symptoms are worsening or you are not properly healing, contact the doctor immediately.
When Is Surgery The Treatment Of Choice?
Sinus surgery may be strongly indicated in acute or chronic situations when the patient’s response to medical treatments does not achieve the desired functional increase. Sinus surgery is also recommended if you have persistent sinus infections that consistently need antibiotic treatments. If you use home treatments for four to six weeks and they are not working, sinus surgery may be your best option. Dr. Daneshrad will assess your nasal passages and sinuses to get a better look at the issues you are experiencing during your appointment with him.
What Happens If Sinus Surgery Does Not Work?
Sinus surgery can help treat breathing problems and sinusitis, but there is a chance that the procedure does not yield permanent results. It is possible that patients who receive sinus surgery see a resurgence of symptoms. You may think that since surgery did not solve the issue, having another procedure performed is pointless. However, this is not the case. There are reasons why you are experiencing the same symptoms.
These reasons include the following:
- There is an underlying sinus disease.
- Scar tissue formed over the sinuses.
- The surgical technique used is outdated.
- You are experiencing symptoms due to allergies.
- Biofilms have developed.
Another potential reason why the first sinus surgery did not treat the issue is that the operation was limited. More specifically, the surgery may not have addressed key areas of the sinuses. Do not be discouraged about the first operation not treating the problem.
Revision procedures can be performed to tackle the problem more effectively. However, it is worth noting that persistent sinus disease can be treated with antibiotics or steroids.
What Are The Risks Of Sinus Surgery?
Similar to many surgical procedures, there are risks involved with sinus surgery. The risks of sinus surgery include the following:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Cerebrospinal fluid leak
- Vision changes
- Altered sense of smell
It is normal to experience some bleeding and swelling during your recovery. But if it continues to persist, seek medical attention.
Schedule A Santa Monica Sinus Surgery Consultation
To learn more about the surgical treatment options available at the Daneshrad Clinic, call 310.453.6500. We proudly serve patients from Santa Monica, Torrance, Los Angeles and surrounding areas, including Brentwood, Malibu, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, Venice, Pacific Palisades, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Palos Verdes.