What Is Sinus Surgery?

Sinus surgery is a procedure to clear blocked sinuses and improve airflow. It’s usually recommended when other treatments like medications or nasal sprays haven’t provided enough relief for issues such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or recurrent infections.

Your sinuses—the air-filled spaces inside your cheekbones, forehead, and around your nose— produce mucus that helps trap dust, germs, and other particles, keeping your nasal passages clean and moist. But sometimes, these sinuses get blocked or inflamed due to infections, allergies, or structural issues like a deviated septum. When this happens, mucus can’t drain properly, causing pain, pressure, congestion, and repeated infections. Sinus surgery clears these blockages to help mucus flow normally again and improve sinus function.

Who Might Need Sinus Surgery?

Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors usually recommend surgery if you have:

• Chronic sinusitis: Sinus infections lasting more than 12 weeks despite treatment
• Frequent sinus infections: Multiple infections in a year, disrupting your life
• Nasal polyps: Noncancerous growths blocking your sinuses
• Structural problems: Such as a deviated septum causing persistent blockage
• Complications: Such as vision problems or abscesses from sinus infections

The Benefits: Why People Choose Sinus Surgery

1. Long-Term Relief from Chronic Sinusitis

For many, surgery reduces infections, pressure, and congestion for years. One study found 76% of patients had significant improvement.

2. Better Breathing & Sleep

Removing polyps or widening narrow passages can mean:

• Fewer nighttime stuffy noses
• Reduced snoring/sleep apnea symptoms

3. Improved Sense of Smell & Taste

Blocked sinuses can dull these senses; surgery often restores them.

4. Fewer Headaches

Sinus-related pressure headaches often improve postoperatively.

5. Reduced Dependence on Medications

Many patients use fewer antibiotics, steroids, or decongestants after sinus surgery.

The Risks of Sinus Surgery: What Could Go Wrong?

Like any medical procedure, sinus surgery comes with some risks, but serious complications are rare.

1. Bleeding: Mild bleeding during or after surgery is common, but excessive bleeding is uncommon and usually manageable.

2. Infection: There’s a small chance of infection after surgery, which your doctor will monitor and treat if needed.

3. Changes in Sense of Smell: Some people experience temporary or, rarely, permanent changes in their sense of smell.

4. Nasal Dryness or Irritation: After surgery, it’s common to feel dryness or irritation inside the nose while it heals.

5. Rare Complications: Though very uncommon, there are risks involving nearby structures like the eyes or brain. Your surgeon will take every precaution to avoid these.

Note: Risks are higher for smokers, those with bleeding disorders, or complex anatomy. Always discuss your specific situation with an ENT specialist who can guide you through the benefits and risks based on your health.

How to Decide If Sinus Surgery Is Right for You

Here are some questions to ask yourself and your doctor:

• Have you tried all other treatments, like medications, nasal sprays, or allergy management?
• Are your symptoms seriously affecting your daily life?
• How often do you get sinus infections?
• Are there structural issues that surgery can fix?
• Do the benefits outweigh the risks in your case?

Getting a second opinion or consulting with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can help you make an informed choice.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Sinus surgery can be a game changer for people with chronic sinus issues that don’t respond to medication. But it’s not without risks, so weighing those carefully with your nose and sinus doctor is key. Every patient is different, so what works well for one person might not be the best choice for another. Being informed is the first step toward breathing easier!

Sinus Surgery Specialists in Jacksonville, Florida

If you’re constantly battling sinus issues and wondering if surgery could help, it’s important to see experts who specialize in the nose and sinuses. At Jacksonville Sinus & Nasal Institute, our doctors are highly trained rhinologists—specialists who focus on treating the nose and sinuses. Using the latest technology and techniques, Dr. Alexander Farag and Dr. Paul Radabaugh bring years of experience and advanced training to provide the best care possible. Their goal is to help you feel better and improve your quality of life by effectively treating your sinus or nasal issues.