SINUSITIS & SINUS SURGERY

About the Sinuses

The sinuses are a combination of large and small air pockets in the face, connected to the inside of the nose through small openings called ostea. They help optimize the temperature and humidity of the air reaching the lungs. Unfortunately, the sinuses can become infected for various reasons, leading to sinusitis symptoms such as nasal obstruction, facial congestion, headaches, excessive catarrh, disturbances in the sense of smell, and toothache.

Treatment of Sinusitis

In most cases, sinusitis treatments can effectively address the condition through medications and by correcting any underlying causes, such as allergies. However, if conservative treatment fails, sinus surgery may be considered.

Surgical Treatment of Sinusitis

Recent years have seen significant improvements

in the surgical treatment of sinusitis. The main principle now focuses on conserving as much of the normal lining of the nose and sinuses as possible, thanks to new surgical techniques. Minimally invasive surgery has become the standard of care, aiming to restore normal mucus flow between the sinuses and the nose by adjusting the anatomy of the affected area. Modern techniques include balloon sinuplasty, which minimizes damage to the lining of the nose, leading to faster and more effective healing. All surgeries are performed endoscopically (with a camera), resulting in minimal pain afterward.

Aftercare

Dr. Alavi does not use nasal packing post-operatively. For 1-2 weeks following surgery, strenuous activity should be avoided. During the first week, do not blow your nose forcefully; instead, try to sniff any secretions into the throat and cough them up. Avoid smoke and other irritants. A small amount of oozing is not unusual and is to be expected. You will receive a prescription for pain medication and possibly antibiotics prior to surgery.