Sinus Surgery

For those suffering from the symptoms of sinusitis, surgery to open the sinus pathways is an outpatient procedure performed in an operating suite with minimal downtime.

Dr. Reitzen’s Types of Sinus Surgery

The first course of action for sinusitis treatment is usually medications (decongestants, anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, antifungals, antibiotics, etc.), but if this fails to succeed at improving a patient’s symptoms, the next step will need to be taken. This is either a balloon sinuplasty or sinus surgery. Sinus surgery widens the openings inside the nose and between the sinuses so that the trapped air can enter and drainage can exit. Sinus surgery may also involve removing infected sinus tissue, bone, or nasal polyps.

What are the Symptoms of Sinusitis?

Pain in the sinuses
Decrease or loss of smell/taste
Fever
Congestion
Headache
Pressure/tenderness in the face
Cough
Runny nose
Post-nasal drip

When are Medications Not Enough?

If a patient who is experiencing chronic sinus pain or pressure or recurring sinus infections is not getting relief from medications, usually a more invasive procedure is required.

Some patients have symptoms that are too severe for medications alone, or their symptoms could be headed down a path where they can lead to more serious issues. In these cases, sinus surgery or a balloon sinuplasty are often the best options.

“Dr. Reitzen is gentle, friendly, and patient. I couldn’t ask for a better experience with a doctor.”

Upper East Side Patient

Sinus Surgery

Sinus surgery is most often performed with the patient under general anesthesia. The procedure usually lasts 1-3 hours. It is performed through the nose with an endoscope: a tool that is something like a flexible telescope with a camera at the end. Dr. Reitzen uses this endoscope to see inside the nose so that she can widen the walls of the nasal passages and safely remove the cause of the blockage. The most common surgical tool that is used to reduce blockages is a microdebrider.

Recovery from Sinus Surgery

Sinus surgery patients are generally able to return to work/school in one week, and their regular routine in about three weeks. It will take approximately two months before full recovery is reached. Sleeping with your head propped on a couple of pillows is recommended. You may experience congestion and/or crusting of the nose for a few weeks, and many patients choose to use gauze during this time. During the first few days, you may find yourself needing to freshen nasal gauze. Be sure to avoid blowing your nose during recovery, as this could cause excessive bleeding.

What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

A minimally invasive alternative to sinus surgery is a balloon sinuplasty. This 10-15-minute in-office procedure uses only local anesthetic (topical and injections).

This procedure uses a soft catheter with an inflatable “balloon” at the tip to open the sinus passageways that are blocked and drain built-up mucous.

During the balloon sinuplasty, the catheter will be placed inside the nose, where the tiny “balloon” will inflate to widen the walls of the sinus passageway (without damaging the sinus lining). During this process, you may feel some pressure, but there should not be any pain. Some patients also experience a “smoky” smell. This is normal. The blockage will be addressed, and once this has been done, a saline solution will then be sprayed into the cavity to cleanse the area and the catheter will be removed. Up to 95% of patients report a significant improvement with the balloon sinuplasty.

Recovery from a Balloon Sinuplasty

After a balloon sinuplasty, you may feel sore for a couple of days and then congested for about one week. Post-operative oozing, red drainage, and bleeding may occur for up to three days, and many patients choose to use gauze during this time. If you have excessive bleeding, please contact us immediately. To minimize nasal congestion, we recommend sleeping with your head elevated by a couple of pillows. Blowing your nose should be completely avoided for two weeks, as should any strenuous activity. (Taking walks is fine.) Over the following month after your balloon sinuplasty, you should notice improvement.

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Why Choose Dr. Reitzen for Sinus Surgery?

Everyone deserves to breathe freely, easily, and comfortably. That’s why Shari Reitzen, MD offers treatment and procedures to restore nasal functionality. Double board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Reitzen is an ENT doctor serving Manhattan’s Upper East Side. She is known for her crystal-clear communication, steady professionalism, and her down-to-earth warmth. If you’re interested in boosting your quality of life with sinus surgery, we welcome you to contact us today to discover what Dr. Reitzen can do for you.

Is Sinus Surgery and Balloon Sinuplasty Covered by Insurance?

Most insurance covers sinus surgery; however, you should contact your health insurance company to double-check. We will assist you in this process.

Sinus Surgery

Dr. Reitzen’s Types of Sinus Surgery

What are the Symptoms of Sinusitis?

When are Medications Not Enough?

“Dr. Reitzen is gentle, friendly, and patient. I couldn’t ask for a better experience with a doctor.”

Sinus Surgery

Recovery from Sinus Surgery

What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Recovery from a Balloon Sinuplasty

Schedule A Consultation

Why Choose Dr. Reitzen for Sinus Surgery?

Is Sinus Surgery and Balloon Sinuplasty Covered by Insurance?

Book An Appointment Contact Us