Sinus Surgery in Santa Monica & Torrance, CA
There are two primary types of 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.
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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.
An 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.
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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 for 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.
When is surgery the treatment of choice?
Sinus surgery may be strongly indicated in acute or chronic situations when the patient response to medical treatments does not achieve the desired increase in function.
What Happens if sinus surgery does not work?
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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.
