FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)

The sinuses are air filled pockets found around the bones of the face and the head. They are important in the way that we breathe and the flow of mucus through the nose and throat. 

Sinusitis is when the passages around the sinus are blocked or restricted causing in many patients congestion, swelling, and pain in the area alongside headaches and in some cases a loss of smell.

Many patients will get better through the use of drops and antibiotics with only a small number requiring surgery. Our consultants will discuss with you each option available and advise accordingly.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery is used only as a last resort after patients have been treated with a course of antibiotics and drops for a period of weeks or months prior. 

A general anaesthetic is usually used for this procedure with any cosmetic issues post the procedure very rare.

The procedure involves the insertion of an endoscope (thin fibre-optic tube) into the nasal passages for a direct examination of the opening to the sinuses.  With state of the art micro-telescopes and instruments, abnormal and obstructive tissues are then removed.

After the operation it is common for a small amount of pain and a blocked nose to be experienced. This does not mean that the procedure has not been successful however. Dressings and plastic splints will be used during and after the operation with the dressings being removed after 24 hours and the splints occasionally slightly longer. 

Most patients will be allowed home the day of or the day after the procedure and will be advised by their consultant as what to expect in the coming week or so which may include slight nasal bleeding and a feeling of congestion. The correct medication including drops will be administered prior to you leaving the hospital.

We advise that you are away from work for a period of one to two weeks following the operation and heavy lifting should be avoided.  

Please do discuss any questions you may have with your consultant prior to the procedure.

This procedure will normally be covered by the medical insurance policy but patients are advised to check with the provider prior to any treatment.

If you are paying for your own treatment all costs will be discussed and explained prior to any treatment taking place. This will be confirmed in writing along with any surgeon fees, anaesthetist fees and hospital charges prior to admission.