When Is Sinus Surgery Needed? A Patient’s Guide
Almost everyone experiences sinus congestion from time to time, but for some people, blocked sinuses become a chronic problem that affects breathing, sleep, and quality of life. When medication no longer provides relief, sinus surgery may be an option.
At Hampshire ENT clinics, we offer modern, minimally invasive procedures to treat chronic sinus problems safely and effectively — helping patients across Portsmouth, Fareham, and the wider region breathe easily again.
👃 Understanding the Sinuses
The sinuses are air-filled spaces around the nose that drain through narrow openings. When these passages become inflamed or blocked, mucus builds up, causing:
Facial pressure or pain
Nasal blockage or congestion
Reduced sense of smell
Postnasal drip
Recurrent sinus infections
When these symptoms persist for 12 weeks or more, it’s known as chronic rhinosinusitis.
💊 First-Line Treatments
Most patients improve with medical therapy, including:
Nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation
Saline rinses to clear mucus
Antibiotics or short courses of oral steroids when appropriate
Treatment for allergies or nasal polyps if present
If symptoms continue despite these treatments, surgery may be considered.
🩺 When Is Sinus Surgery Needed?
Sinus surgery is usually recommended when:
Symptoms last more than 3 months despite medical treatment
CT scans show persistent blockage or sinus disease
There are nasal polyps or structural problems (like a deviated septum)
Recurrent infections keep returning after antibiotics
There are complications such as eye swelling or chronic headaches linked to sinus pressure
⚕️ What Does Sinus Surgery Involve?
At Hampshire ENT, we perform Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) — a minimally invasive procedure that:
Opens blocked sinus passages using a small endoscope
Removes polyps or inflamed tissue
Restores natural drainage and airflow
Advanced image-guided navigation is used for precision and safety, especially in complex or revision cases.
Many patients go home the same day, with a short recovery period and lasting improvement in breathing and comfort.
🌟 Benefits of Sinus Surgery
Improved nasal breathing
Fewer infections
Better sense of smell
Relief from facial pressure
Improved sleep and energy levels
📍 Expert Sinus Care in Hampshire
At Hampshire ENT clinics, our team provides comprehensive care — from medical therapy to advanced sinus surgery — all delivered locally. Clinics available across Portsmouth, Winchester & Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
👉 If you’re struggling with persistent sinus symptoms, contact Hampshire ENT clinics to discuss whether sinus surgery could help you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Sinus Surgery
What is chronic sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis (chronic rhinosinusitis) is diagnosed when sinus symptoms last 12 weeks or longer despite treatment. Typical symptoms include nasal blockage, facial pressure, reduced sense of smell, postnasal drip, and recurrent sinus infections.
Do all sinus problems need surgery?
No. Most patients improve with medical treatment such as nasal steroid sprays, saline rinses, and targeted therapy for allergies or polyps. Surgery is only considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate medical management.
When should sinus surgery be considered?
Sinus surgery may be recommended if:
Symptoms last more than 3 months despite treatment
CT scans show persistent sinus blockage or inflammation
Nasal polyps are present
Structural problems (e.g. deviated septum) contribute to blockage
Infections keep recurring
Complications develop (such as eye symptoms or ongoing sinus-related headaches)
What type of sinus surgery is performed?
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, surgery is usually performed as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). This is a minimally invasive technique carried out through the nostrils using a small camera (endoscope), with no external cuts.
What does Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) do?
FESS aims to:
Open blocked sinus drainage pathways
Remove inflamed tissue or nasal polyps
Restore normal sinus ventilation and mucus clearance
Image-guided navigation may be used in complex or revision cases to improve safety and accuracy.
Is sinus surgery a day-case procedure?
Yes. Most patients go home the same day. Recovery is usually straightforward, with gradual improvement over the following weeks.
How long does recovery take after sinus surgery?
Initial recovery takes around 1–2 weeks, with nasal congestion and mild discomfort settling gradually. Ongoing healing and improvement in symptoms continue over several weeks.
What are the benefits of sinus surgery?
Many patients experience:
Improved nasal breathing
Fewer sinus infections
Better sense of smell
Relief from facial pressure and headaches
Improved sleep and energy levels
Will I still need nasal sprays after surgery?
Often, yes. Surgery improves sinus drainage and airflow, allowing sprays and rinses to work more effectively. Long-term medical treatment is an important part of managing chronic sinus disease.
Where can I be assessed for sinus surgery?
Consultant-led sinus assessment and surgery are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, with local access for patients across Portsmouth, Fareham, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.