Sinus Surgery FAQs | What to Know Before, During, and After Your Procedure
- Madeleine Herman
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
By: Dr. Madeleine Samuelson Herman, MD, MPH, FAAOA
If you're struggling with chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, or sinus pressure that won’t go away, your ENT may recommend sinus surgery. At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, we know that patients have many questions before committing to surgery.
This FAQ guide covers everything you need to know about sinus surgery—from what it treats to what recovery looks like.
What is sinus surgery?
Sinus surgery is a medical procedure used to remove blockages in the sinus pathways, allowing for proper drainage and airflow. The most common type is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), a minimally invasive approach using a small camera and instruments to open sinus passages.
Who needs sinus surgery?
Sinus surgery is typically recommended for people who have:
Chronic sinusitis that doesn’t respond to medication
Recurrent sinus infections (4+ times per year)
Nasal polyps
Deviated septum or structural issues affecting the sinuses
Mucus buildup and facial pressure that affects quality of life
If symptoms last 12 weeks or more despite medications, an ENT evaluation is essential.
Is sinus surgery painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort, not pain. Since modern sinus surgery is performed endoscopically and often under general anesthesia, you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Postoperative discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and proper care.
How long does the procedure take?
The surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on how many sinuses are being treated and whether other procedures—like septoplasty or turbinate reduction—are performed at the same time.
What is recovery like?
Most patients return to work in 3–5 days
You may experience mild congestion, drainage, or fatigue for a week or two
Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for at least one week
Full healing occurs over several weeks, with post-op visits to ensure proper healing
Will I need to stay overnight?
In most cases, sinus surgery is an outpatient procedure, and you can go home the same day. Rare cases or extensive surgeries may require overnight observation.
Will sinus surgery cure my sinus issues?
Sinus surgery is not a “cure,” but it significantly reduces symptoms for the majority of patients. It improves airflow and drainage, making it easier for medications to work and reducing infection frequency. Some patients with allergies or asthma may still need maintenance treatment.
Are there risks?
All surgical procedures carry some risk, though complications are rare with experienced ENT surgeons. Possible risks include:
Bleeding
Infection
Scar tissue
Temporary nasal congestion
Rare injury to surrounding structures (e.g., eye or brain)
At SCENT Houston, our surgeons use image-guided technology to ensure precision and safety.
How do I prepare for sinus surgery?
Before surgery, your ENT will likely:
Order a CT scan of your sinuses
Review your medications (you may need to stop blood thinners)
Provide pre- and post-operative instructions
You’ll need to arrange a ride home and plan for a few low-activity days afterward.
Is sinus surgery covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans—including Medicare—do cover sinus surgery when it’s medically necessary. Our team will work with you to verify coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Have More Questions About Sinus Surgery?
At SCENT Houston, we specialize in treating chronic sinus conditions with expert evaluation, medical management, and advanced surgical care. If you're considering sinus surgery or want a second opinion, we’re here to help you breathe better—every day.
📞 Contact SCENT Houston today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward long-term sinus relief.
留言