Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat recurrent or persistent sinus infections, abnormal growth of tissues in the nose (nasal polyps) and to remove tumours. In this procedure, an endoscope is used to operate on the sinuses through the nostrils. There are no external scars.
This procedure is done under general anaesthesia. Once the patient is asleep, an endoscope and various instruments are introduced into the nose. Surgery is then carried out using the endoscope to clear sinus disease.
Nasal packs may be left inside your nose for 24 – 48 hours following the surgery to stop bleeding from the operative site. These may be absorbable or non-absorbable. The nasal packs will prevent you from breathing through your nose and may cause tearing.
