What Is a Mastoidectomy?
A mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat infections and diseases affecting the mastoid, the bony structure located behind ...
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is an endoscopic surgical technique that may be used to evaluate chronic sinusitis and obstructions related to nasal–sinus anatomy when deemed necessary. It is performed by ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialists using endoscopes placed inside the nose. During this procedure, no external incision is made; the surgery is carried out through the nasal passages under camera guidance.
FESS enables the surgical field to be assessed under a wide view with endoscopic imaging, and healthy tissues are preserved as much as possible during the procedure. Endoscopic sinus surgery is planned with the aim of providing functional and anatomical solutions tailored to the patient’s needs.
In Which Situations Is FESS Necessary?
FESS is generally considered a surgical option for sinus diseases that do not respond to medical treatments, become chronic, or carry a risk of complications. In particular, the following conditions may be among the indications for FESS:
- Chronic sinusitis (sinus inflammation lasting longer than 12 weeks)
- Rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (tissue growths inside the nose)
- Recurrent sinusitis attacks
- Fungal infections within the nose and sinuses
- Sinus infections that carry a risk of spreading to the areas around the eye or brain
- Loss of smell, headache, and nasal congestion due to sinus obstruction
- Cysts or tumors occurring in the sinus region
For the management of these conditions, detailed examination by an ENT specialist, endoscopic assessment, and planning with imaging methods such as CT–MRI are performed.
How Is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Performed?
FESS is usually performed under general anesthesia. With a camera system placed inside the nose, the anatomical structure of the sinuses is visualized in detail. The goal is to adjust the sinus openings in a way that supports natural drainage and ventilation.
The surgeon aims to make the sinus area more functional by removing inflamed tissue, polyps, cystic structures, or anatomical narrowings that constrict the sinus pathways. In this way, structures that may cause infection and obstruction can be eliminated and management of the condition may become easier.
During FESS, no external incision is made; the procedure is performed through the nasal passages. This approach eliminates the need for an additional external cut and the recovery process may vary from person to person.
Recovery Process After FESS Surgery
- After the operation, an overnight hospital stay may be recommended for some patients.
- Mild congestion and minor nasal bleeding may be seen in the first few days.
- Returning to daily life is usually within 1 week, but it may vary from person to person.
- Nasal cleansing and ENT follow-ups should be performed regularly for 2–3 weeks as recommended by the physician.
- To reduce the risk of infection, it is important not to skip the prescribed antibiotic and spray treatments.
What Are The Advantages Of FESS?
- Thanks to endoscopic imaging, the surgical field can be evaluated in detail.
- The aim is to focus on the problematic areas while preserving healthy tissues.
- Since no external nasal incision is made, there may be no visible scar from the outside.
- Recovery may be faster depending on the extent of the procedure and individual factors.
- It may be considered an effective method in the management of chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
- In some patients, it may contribute to improvement in problems related to the sense of smell.
- It may help reduce complaints such as headache and nasal congestion.
Who Is FESS Surgery Suitable For?
- People with persistent nasal congestion
- Those with frequent recurrent sinusitis attacks
- Those who have difficulty breathing due to polyps
- Those with loss of smell or headache related to sinusitis
- Patients with chronic sinusitis resistant to medical treatment
- People whose complaints persist despite having had previous sinus surgery
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery may be a treatment option for these patients if deemed appropriate after evaluation by a specialist physician.
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