Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS) is a modern surgical technique used to treat chronic sinus problems that do not respond to medications. It is performed using a small telescope (endoscope) inserted through the nostrils, allowing the surgeon to see and work inside the sinuses without making any external cuts.
This surgery aims to open up blocked sinus pathways, improve drainage, and reduce symptoms such as facial pressure, nasal congestion, runny nose or post nasal drip, decreased sense of smell and frequent infections.
While surgery can greatly improve symptoms, some patients may still require ongoing medical treatment for allergies or inflammation afterward.
ESS may be recommended if you have:
Before considering surgery Dr Phillips will usually try medical therapies such as nasal sprays, saline rinses, antibiotics, and possibly steroids if they haven’t already been tried by you local GP. If symptoms continue, ESS may be the next step.
As with any surgery, there are some risks involved, although serious complications are rare. These may include:
Your surgeon, Dr Phillips, will discuss these risks with you in detail and answer any questions you may have.
Let Dr Phillips know about any medications or supplements you’re taking, especially blood thinners. Some may need to be paused before surgery.
Avoid smoking, as it can delay healing and reduce the success of the procedure.
If you’re having general anaesthesia, do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before surgery. Follow instructions from your anaesthetist or hospital.
If you develop a cold, fever, or infection close to your surgery date, let us know as your surgery may need to be postponed.
Endoscopic sinus surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes about 1–2 hours, depending on the extent of the sinus disease.
Because the surgery is done through the nose, there are no external cuts and any sutures placed inside the nose are dissolvable.
Most patients go home the same day (day surgery), although some may stay overnight if needed.
Your nose will likely feel blocked or congested for 1–2 weeks after surgery due to swelling or crusting. This is normal.
Mild to moderate discomfort or pressure in the nose is common and you will feel quite congested and tired, like having a cold or flu. In most cases this can be managed with regular pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Stronger pain relief is provided as necessary.
A small amount of ooze or bleeding is normal for 3-4 days post op. Significant bleeding is uncommon. If bleeding is heavy or persistent, seek medical attention.
To promote healing and prevent crusting, you’ll be asked to rinse your nose with a saline solution (e.g., FLO or FESS) multiple times a day. Start as directed, in most cases the following morning after surgery.
Contact our clinic or seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
A follow-up appointment will be arranged with Dr Phillips about 1–2 weeks after surgery. During this visit, any crusts or remaining packing may be removed, and healing will be checked.
You may need several follow-up visits to monitor healing and maintain the surgical openings.
No. This is not a cosmetic procedure and does not change the external shape of your nose.
Endoscopic sinus surgery helps improve sinus drainage and function, but it doesn’t cure the underlying cause of chronic sinusitis. You may still need:
• Ongoing nasal sprays or rinses
• Allergy treatment or management
• Monitoring for recurrence of symptoms
Following your surgeon’s advice and sticking to your nasal care routine is essential for long-term success.
If you’d like to discuss this procedure or explore suitable treatment options, please get in touch with Dr Nicholas Phillips’ clinic.
To book with Dr Phillips, you’ll need a referral from your GP or specialist. Questions? Call our team — we’re happy to help.
