Who are the Best Sinus Surgery Specialists in Houston, Texas?
When searching for the best sinus surgery specialists in Houston, patients should look for board-certified ENT physicians who focus specifically on sinus disease and nasal airway disorders. The best specialists combine advanced surgical expertise with a conservative, patient-first approach—meaning surgery is recommended only when it is truly needed.
Top sinus surgery specialists typically offer:
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Extensive experience treating chronic sinusitis
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Both medical and surgical treatment options
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Minimally invasive sinus procedures when appropriate
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In-office diagnostic tools such as nasal endoscopy and sinus CT
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A strong reputation supported by patient reviews and outcomes
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At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, patients are evaluated by a board-certified ENT with advanced training in sinus and nasal airway surgery. Dr. Madeleine Herman specializes in treating complex sinus conditions, nasal obstruction, and breathing issues using both traditional and minimally invasive techniques—tailored to each patient’s anatomy and symptoms.
When Should You See a Sinus Surgery Specialist?
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You should consider seeing a sinus surgery specialist if sinus symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or affecting your quality of life, especially when standard treatments have failed.
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Common reasons to seek a sinus specialist include:
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Sinus infections lasting more than 12 weeks
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Recurrent sinus infections (4+ per year)
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Chronic nasal congestion or blockage
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Facial pressure or sinus headaches
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Thick postnasal drip
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Poor response to antibiotics, nasal sprays, or allergy treatment
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Reduced sense of smell
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Breathing difficulty through the nose
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You may also need a sinus surgery consultation if imaging (such as a CT scan) shows:
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Chronic sinus inflammation
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Blocked sinus drainage pathways
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Nasal polyps
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Structural issues contributing to sinus disease
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Seeing a sinus surgery specialist does not mean surgery is inevitable. In many cases, the goal is to determine why symptoms persist and whether they can be managed medically—or whether a targeted procedure could provide lasting relief.
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Finding the right sinus surgery specialist in Houston starts with choosing a board-certified ENT who specializes in sinus disease, offers comprehensive treatment options, and takes time to truly understand your symptoms.
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If sinus problems are interfering with your breathing, sleep, or daily life, a consultation with an experienced sinus specialist, like Dr. Madeleine Herman, MD at SCENT Houston - Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston can provide clarity—and often relief.
Sinus FAQs | Sinus Problems, Infections & Treatments
If you suffer from frequent sinus infections, facial pressure, or constant congestion, you’re not alone. Below are answers to the most common questions our ENT specialists hear from sinus patients in Houston.
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What is chronic sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses that lasts 12 weeks or longer, even with treatment. It often causes persistent congestion, facial pressure, thick drainage, and a reduced sense of smell. Unlike acute sinus infections, chronic sinusitis usually involves poor sinus drainage and ongoing inflammation, not just infection.
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Why do I keep getting sinus infections?
Recurrent sinus infections often occur when something blocks normal sinus drainage, such as:
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Nasal polyps
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Deviated septum
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Enlarged turbinates
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Chronic inflammation
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Narrow sinus openings
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Without fixing the underlying issue, infections tend to return—even after antibiotics.
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What is a nasal endoscopy?
A nasal endoscopy is a quick, in-office procedure where a small camera is used to look inside the nasal passages and sinuses. It helps identify inflammation, polyps, drainage issues, or structural problems. The procedure is typically well tolerated and provides valuable diagnostic information.
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What’s the difference between a sinus headache and a migraine?
True sinus headaches are usually associated with:
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Nasal congestion
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Thick drainage
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Infection or inflammation
Migraines often cause:
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Light or sound sensitivity
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Nausea
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Throbbing pain
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No nasal findings on exam
Many patients diagnosed with “sinus headaches” actually have migraines. Proper diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment.
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When should I see an ENT for sinus problems?
You should see an ENT if:
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Symptoms last longer than 10–14 days
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You have multiple sinus infections per year
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Antibiotics aren’t helping
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Facial pressure or congestion keeps returning
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You’re considering sinus surgery or balloon sinuplasty
Early evaluation can prevent chronic symptoms.
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What is balloon sinuplasty?
Am I a candidate for balloon sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that opens blocked sinus passages using a small balloon. It helps restore normal drainage without removing tissue or bone. Many patients experience faster recovery and long-lasting relief.
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You may be a candidate if you have:
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Chronic or recurrent sinusitis
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Persistent symptoms despite medical therapy
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Favorable sinus anatomy​
Not everyone is a candidate. An ENT exam and imaging help determine if balloon sinuplasty is appropriate.
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Is sinus surgery always necessary?
No. Many sinus problems improve with medical management alone. Surgery is typically recommended only when symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment. When needed, ENT-guided procedures are designed to improve drainage and reduce inflammation.
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Can sinus problems affect my sense of smell?
Yes. Chronic sinus inflammation, nasal polyps, and congestion can reduce or block airflow to smell receptors. Treating the underlying sinus condition often improves smell over time.
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Do you see self-pay or uninsured patients?
Yes. We welcome self-pay and uninsured patients and can provide upfront pricing estimates. High-deductible insurance patients are also welcome.