NOSE&SINUS

ENDOSCOPIC
SINUS SURGERY

ENDOSCOPIC SINUS SURGERY

Dr. John Chaplin – ENT and Head and Neck Surgeon

Auckland NZ

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Advanced Sinus Surgery to Improve Breathing and Relieve Chronic Sinus Symptoms

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat ongoing sinus problems that have not responded to medical treatment. The aim of surgery is to restore natural sinus drainage, reduce inflammation, and improve airflow – helping you breathe more easily and feel better.

This surgery is performed using a fine camera (endoscope) placed through the nostrils, so no external cuts or scars are required.

What is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?

FESS is a modern surgical technique that uses high-definition endoscopes to visualise the sinus openings and remove blockages with precision. It focuses on improving the natural function of the sinuses while preserving healthy tissue.

When is Sinus Surgery Needed?

You may benefit from sinus surgery if you have persistent symptoms despite appropriate medical treatment, such as:

Chronic sinusitis (lasting more than 12 weeks)
Recurrent acute sinus infections
Nasal polyps
Ongoing nasal congestion or blockage
Facial pressure or pain
Post-nasal drip
Headaches related to sinus disease
Sinus complications affecting nearby structures

CT scanning and nasal endoscopy help confirm whether surgery is appropriate.

How is FESS Performed?

The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. Small endoscopes are inserted through the nasal passages to see the sinus openings.

Specialised instruments are used to:

Remove inflamed tissue
Open blocked sinus drainage pathways
Improve airflow
Allow sinuses to clear naturally

This minimally invasive approach results in:

Less tissue trauma
Faster recovery
Reduced bleeding
Improved long-term results

Can Sinus Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes. Sinus surgery is frequently combined with other nasal procedures to improve breathing and overall outcomes:

Septoplasty

Straightening of a crooked nasal septum to improve airflow and allow better access to the sinuses.

Turbinoplasty

Reduction of enlarged nasal turbinates that cause chronic nasal blockage.

Rhinoplasty

In selected cases, cosmetic or structural nasal surgery can be safely combined with sinus surgery.

Combining procedures often means a single anaesthetic and one recovery period.

Risks and Complications of Sinus Surgery

FESS is a very safe procedure when performed by an experienced ENT surgeon. However, all surgery carries some risks.

Possible complications include:

Bleeding (usually mild)
Infection is uncommon but can occur and is treated with antibiotics
Persistent or recurrent sinus symptoms
Temporary changes in sense of smell
Crusting or dryness inside the nose
Leakage of clear fluid (CSF leak) – very rare
Eye-related complications (bruising, swelling, or visual changes) – extremely rare