Sinus problems can be more than just a seasonal annoyance. For some people, chronic sinus infections, breathing issues, or other sinus-related conditions are a source of long-term discomfort. When medications and other treatments aren’t enough, sinus surgery may be the next best option. There are several types of sinus surgery in Los Angeles, each designed to address specific issues. Knowing about these surgeries and how they work can help you understand which option might benefit you.
What is Sinus Surgery?
Sinus surgery is a medical procedure aimed at opening the pathways of the sinuses and clearing blockages. The sinuses are air-filled spaces behind your forehead, eyes, and cheeks. When they become blocked or inflamed, it can lead to chronic sinusitis, making breathing difficult and causing pain or pressure. Sinus surgery in Los Angeles can relieve these issues and improve your quality of life by restoring proper sinus function.
When is Sinus Surgery Needed?
Sinus surgery is usually considered after non-surgical treatments, such as medication or nasal irrigation, have failed. If you experience chronic sinus infections (lasting more than 12 weeks), recurrent infections, difficulty breathing through your nose, or have growths like polyps obstructing your nasal passages, your doctor may suggest sinus surgery. The goal is to reduce inflammation, improve airflow, and prevent further infections.
Different Types of Sinus Surgery
There are various types of sinus surgery available, each suited for specific conditions. Below are the most common types and how they may benefit you.
1. In-Office Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
How it works: In-office endoscopic sinus surgery is one of the most common types of sinus surgery. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small, flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a light and camera attached. The surgeon inserts the endoscope through the nose, allowing them to view the sinus passages on a screen. Special tools are used to remove blockages, such as polyps or scar tissue, without making any external incisions. The procedure can also be performed as Minimally Invasive Image Guided Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (MIGSS™).
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive, meaning less pain and faster recovery time.
- No external cuts or stitches required.
- Helps treat chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and other blockages.
Who it’s for: In-office endoscopic sinus surgery and minimally invasive image-guided endoscopic sinus surgery are ideal for patients with chronic sinusitis, polyps, or mild structural issues in their sinuses that haven’t responded to other treatments.
2. Balloon Sinuplasty
How it works: Balloon sinuplasty is a less invasive option than traditional sinus surgery. In this procedure, a small balloon is inserted into the blocked sinus passage through the nose. Once in place, the balloon is gently inflated, which widens the sinus opening and improves airflow. After the passage is widened, the balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the sinus open.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort.
- Quick recovery time, often with patients resuming normal activities within a day or two.
- No tissue or bone is removed, which means less trauma to the sinuses.
Who it’s for: Balloon sinuplasty is best suited for patients with mild to moderate chronic sinusitis who haven’t found relief from medications but don’t have more severe structural issues in their sinuses.
Also Read: Balloon Sinuplasty vs. Minimally Invasive Image Guided Sinus Surgery
3. Septoplasty
How it works: Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum. The septum is the cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils. A deviated septum occurs when the septum is crooked, making it difficult to breathe through one or both nostrils. During septoplasty, the surgeon straightens the septum, allowing for better airflow through the nasal passages.
Benefits:
- Improves breathing by correcting the alignment of the septum.
- Can reduce nasal congestion and sinus infections caused by a deviated septum.
Who it’s for: Septoplasty is ideal for patients with breathing problems caused by a deviated septum. It can also help reduce the occurrence of sinus infections for some patients.
4. Turbinate Reduction Surgery
How it works: The turbinates are structures inside the nose that help filter and humidify the air you breathe. In some cases, the turbinates become enlarged, leading to difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, and frequent sinus infections. Turbinate reduction surgery involves removing or reducing the size of the turbinates to improve airflow.
Benefits:
- Relieves chronic nasal congestion.
- Improves breathing and reduces sinus infections.
Who it’s for: This surgery is for patients with enlarged turbinates that cause significant breathing problems and frequent sinus infections.
5. Frontal Sinus Surgery
How it works: Frontal sinus surgery is used to treat infections or blockages in the frontal sinuses, which are located above the eyes in the forehead. The surgeon may use an endoscope to remove blockages or, in more severe cases, may need to create a new pathway for the sinuses to drain.
Benefits:
- Treats chronic infections and blockages in the frontal sinuses.
- Helps relieve pressure and pain caused by frontal sinus issues.
Who it’s for: This procedure is typically recommended for patients with chronic infections or blockages in the frontal sinuses that haven’t responded to other treatments.
Recovery and Aftercare
After sinus surgery, most patients experience relief from chronic sinus problems, but it’s essential to follow your doctor’s recovery plan to ensure the best results. Here are some general tips for recovery:
- Rest: Give your body time to heal by taking it easy for a few days after surgery.
- Nasal Care: Use any prescribed nasal sprays or rinses to keep the sinus passages clear and promote healing.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, dust, and other irritants that could slow healing.
- Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your doctor will ensure the surgery’s success and help monitor your progress.
Benefits of Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery offers several benefits, especially for those who have struggled with chronic sinus issues for years. Here are some key advantages:
- Improved Breathing: By removing blockages and widening sinus passages, you’ll breathe easier and feel less congested.
- Fewer Infections: Many patients find that after surgery, their frequency of sinus infections decreases significantly.
- Better Quality of Life: Reduced sinus pain, pressure, and infections can dramatically improve your day-to-day life and overall health.
- Minimal Downtime: With advancements in minimally invasive techniques like endoscopic surgery and balloon sinuplasty, many patients can return to normal activities within days.
Conclusion
Sinus surgery in Los Angeles is a life-changing option for those suffering from chronic sinus issues. From minimally invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty to more involved surgeries like septoplasty, MIGSS, or frontal sinus surgery, there’s a solution for every type of sinus problem.
If you’re struggling with ongoing sinus infections or breathing difficulties, contact the Southern California Sinus Institute for an appointment with sinus specialist Dr. Alen N. Cohen, MD, FACS, FARS. He will determine which sinus surgery is right for you and get you back on the path to a healthier, more comfortable life.