Sinus Surgery Melbourne Melbourne ENT

Sinus surgery refers to a medical procedure performed to address issues affecting the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces in the skull connected to the nasal passages. The purpose of sinus surgery is to treat chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or other conditions that cause persistent inflammation, blockage, or infection in the sinuses.

Dr Simon Braham and Dr Stephen Kleid are experienced Ear, Nose, and Throat ENT Surgeons (Otolaryngologists) based in Melbourne who perform Sinus Surgery. They assist patients with sino-nasal difficulties, bringing relief and improved well-being. With extensive experience in the field, Dr Braham and Dr Kleid have successfully performed numerous sinus surgeries. Their dedication to providing personalized care and expertise has earned a strong reputation among their patients and peers alike.

A range of treatment options is available, including the popular Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) in Melbourne. The treatment approach for sinus issues depends on the underlying cause, and the surgeon needs to tailor the method to each individual patient.

Sinus surgery is often the next step or preferred treatment option for patients who have not experienced improvement with conservative treatment of sinusitis. Conservative treatments include: natural sinus treatment, inhalation, tea and antibiotics, as well as, nasal drops and sinus cleansing.

Am I a good candidate for Sinus Surgery?

Any patient with chronic sinusitis who does not respond to therapy should seek treatment from an otorhinolaryngologist.

The operation itself depends on the extent and localization of the issue and is individually tailored for each patient. However, if you suffer from any of the below you could possibly benefit from Sinus Surgery;

Breathing issues
Thick nasal drainage and snot
Pain in the sinuses area
Runny nose, snoring and sleep apnoea in patients with nasal polyps

If conventional treatments are not improving your health, undergoing surgery may be a good choice to relieve your discomfort. Surgery may also be necessary, if you are experiencing distress as a result of structural deformities such as nasal septal deviation or nasal polyps.

Benefits of Sinus Surgery

Sinus surgery offers several potential benefits to individuals experiencing chronic sinus issues. These benefits can include;

✓ Minimal Surgical Trauma

Sinus surgery is designed to be minimally invasive, aiming to preserve the healthy structures of the nose and sinuses.

✓ Improved Sinus Drainage

By opening up the sinuses and removing blockages, sinus surgery helps to improve sinus drainage. This allows mucus to flow more freely, reducing congestion and the likelihood of recurring infections.

✓ Enhanced Breathing

Sinus surgery can significantly improve nasal airflow, allowing for easier and more comfortable breathing.

This can be especially beneficial for individuals who have been experiencing chronic nasal congestion or obstruction.

✓ Minimal to Moderate Postoperative Pain

While some degree of postoperative pain is normal, most patients report minimal to moderate pain following sinus surgery.

This discomfort can typically be managed with prescribed pain medications and resolves as the healing process progresses.

✓ Reduced Frequency and Severity of Infections

By improving sinus drainage and reducing blockages, sinus surgery can help reduce the frequency and severity of nasal infections.

This can lead to fewer episodes of sinusitis and a decreased reliance on antibiotics for treatment.

✓ Improved Sleep Quality

Chronic sinus issues can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to snoring or sleep apnoea.

Sinus surgery can help alleviate these symptoms, leading to better sleep quality.

✓ No Visible Scarring

Sinus surgery is typically performed using endoscopic techniques, which involve small incisions or no external incisions at all.

This means there is usually no visible scarring after the procedure.

It’s important to note that the specific benefits and outcomes of sinus surgery may vary depending on individual circumstances and the underlying condition being addressed. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional, such as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, can provide personalized information and guidance regarding the potential benefits of sinus surgery in your particular case.

Sinus Surgery Procedures including FESS

The goal of sinus surgery is to remove tissue that blocks sinus drainage. The most commonly performed operation is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).

However, in the cases of severe forms of sinus blockages or after previous sinus surgeries, image-guided surgery and Caldwell-Luc operations are also common methods.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive surgery (no skin incisions). Your surgeon is able to perform the procedure on the sinuses by direct visualization through the nostrils. The surgeon rinses the sinuses and expands the natural opening of the sinuses, thus easing the drainage and improving the ventilation. You will be under general anesthesia for the procedure, in other words, you won’t be conscious. With proper preoperative preparation and the precise work of the surgeon, bleeding is minimal.

Your surgeon will make small incisions inside the nose. Then they can make new passages or open existing ones by removing polyps, cysts, small pieces of bone, or thickened mucosa. With the endoscopic technique, the operation is minimally invasive, but still sufficient to both remove pathological formations and restore normal function of the nose and nasal cavities.

Benefits of FESS Surgery for Sinus Concerns

FESS surgery is a modern minimally invasive technique used to improve how your sinuses drain and function. It is performed through the nostrils using fine endoscopes, so there are no external cuts. FESS is usually recommended when long-term sinus problems have not improved with medical treatment such as sprays, rinses or antibiotics.

Here are the key benefits of FESS for patients with chronic sinus concerns:

• Improves sinus drainage
FESS gently opens narrow or blocked sinus passages. This allows trapped mucus to drain more freely, reducing swelling and the feeling of blockage or heaviness in the face.

• Reduces how often sinus infections occur
When the sinuses drain better, they are less likely to become inflamed or infected. Many patients experience fewer flare-ups after surgery, especially when they continue their recommended medical care.

• May improve the sense of smell
Inflammation and polyps can affect the sense of smell. By clearing obstructed areas, some patients notice changes in how well they can smell or taste.

• No external incisions
As FESS is performed entirely inside the nose, there are no external scars. The approach is designed to preserve healthy tissue while addressing the problem areas.

• Faster recovery compared with traditional sinus surgery
Because the technique is less invasive, many people return to normal activities sooner, depending on their healing and surgeon’s guidance.

• Can address multiple issues in the same procedure
Your surgeon can remove polyps, straighten internal structures, and clear blocked sinuses in one operation if needed. This provides a more complete approach to managing long-term sinus problems.

• Can support long-term sinus health
When combined with ongoing medical management such as regular saline rinses, nasal sprays and allergy care, FESS can form part of a long-term plan to manage chronic sinus inflammation.

• May reduce the need for repeated courses of antibiotics
Better sinus function can mean fewer infections, which may help limit the need for antibiotic treatment over time.

• Customised and Tailored Precision
FESS is highly precise. Surgeons use high-definition cameras to see the natural sinus openings clearly and treat only the areas that need attention.

Recovery after Sinus Surgery

You will be able to leave the hospital just a couple of hours after the surgery. There are no visible changes in the face in terms of swelling and bruising.

In the days after the operation, the nasal mucosa will thicken and it is necessary to use nasal drops to both relieve edema and aid recovery. Many patients will be able to resume most of their daily activities after one week, however, you shouldn’t resume physical activity for 2-3 weeks.

Complications and Risks of Sinus Surgery

It is important to ask your ENT specialist any questions that you may have. They will discuss the potential complications are risks in detail during your consultation.

Although complications are rare, they can still occur, below is a list of some of the complications that patients might experience:

Bleeding after the surgery
Loss of smell and taste
Double vision
Tearing of the eye
Swelling of the eye and eyelids
Eye hematoma
Infection
Nasal issues
Voice change
Teeth pain

Sinus Surgery Cost

The cost of sinus surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the specific procedure performed, the complexity of the case, the surgeon’s experience and expertise, the geographic location, and the healthcare facility where the surgery is conducted.

In general, sinus surgery costs can include the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, facility fees (for the operating room and hospital stay, if applicable), pre-operative and post-operative consultations, diagnostic tests, and medications.

It is important to check with your healthcare provider or surgeon to obtain a detailed breakdown of the expected costs and to confirm what is covered by your insurance, if applicable. Insurance coverage can vary, so it is crucial to understand your policy’s terms and coverage limitations.

It is worth noting that sinus surgery may be covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary to treat a specific condition or if it meets the criteria outlined by your insurance provider. However, coverage may vary, and prior authorization or a referral from your primary care physician may be required.

To get a precise estimate of the cost of sinus surgery in your specific situation, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider or surgeon. They can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the expected costs, available payment options, and any potential financial assistance programs that may be available.

Every patient is different, therefore the prices vary. You will receive a price quote after your first consultation. Your Sinus Surgery quote will include a breakdown of costs.

Sinus Surgery Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if I Need Sinus Surgery?

A comprehensive review of medical history and data on the type, frequency, symptoms, and hereditary predisposition to the disease is very important in determining the diagnosis.

Your surgeon will need to establish whether breathing through the nose is difficult due to a functional obstruction, for example, swelling of the mucosa, polyps or deformed bones and cartilage in the nose.

How much pain there is after the FESS surgery?

Every person manages pain differently, therefore there is not a single answer.

However, most patients feel minimal pain with the proper medication after the surgery

What are the differences between chronic and acute sinusitis?

Experts usually divide sinusitis into acute lasting less than 3 weeks; chronic, which usually lasts at least 3 to 8 weeks and can continue for months or even years; and recurrent that causes several acute seizures during the year. Sinus surgery treats mostly chronic cases of sinusitis.

I had Sinus Surgery and suddenly feel tooth pain. Is this normal?

Altered teeth sensation is something that is pretty common after Sinus Surgery. However, the symptoms usually disappear gradually in the first week post-surgery.

Medical References

Why Choose Dr Kleid ?

Dr Stephen Kleid,
Melbourne ENT Surgeon
MED0001052799

Dr Stephen Kleid is an experienced ENT Surgeon (Otolaryngologist) based in Melbourne with a passion for Septo-rhinoplasty, Septoplasty and a strong interest in Rhinoplasty Revision.

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Qualifications

AHPRA (Medical Board)
MB, BS; FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons)
AAFPS – Member of the Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
AAFPRS – (International Member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons)

Dr Kleid’s Procedures

Nose Surgery

ENT Surgery

Cancer Surgery

Why Choose Dr Braham ?

Dr Simon Braham,
Melbourne ENT Surgeon
MED0001144757

Dr Simon Braham MBBS (Hons) FRACS is an experienced Ear, Nose and Throat ENT Surgeon (Otolaryngologist) based in Melbourne, performing tonsil, grommet and sinus surgery for children & adults. He helps patients with breathing issues, snoring concerns and sleep disturbances.