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Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, or FESS, is a surgical procedure designed to treat chronic sinusitis and other sinus-related diseases. The primary purpose of FESS is to restore normal sinus ventilation and function, which can be hampered by chronic inflammation, nasal polyps, or anatomic abnormalities.
The benefits of FESS include not just the relief from chronic sinusitis symptoms such as facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, and loss of smell, but also a potential reduction in the frequency and severity of future sinus infections. Moreover, the procedure can improve the effectiveness of nasal medications because they can reach the affected areas more easily.
It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.
If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.
The process of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) begins with an in-depth consultation with our experienced surgeon, Dr Zacharia. In this meeting, your symptoms, medical history, and nasal and sinus anatomy will be assessed. He may use endoscopic examination or imaging studies to evaluate the structure and condition of your sinuses. This consultation is an excellent opportunity for you to discuss any concerns or ask any questions you may have about the procedure.
Upon reaching a consensus on the surgical approach, you will receive detailed preoperative instructions to prepare for your FESS procedure. These instructions might include dietary guidelines, smoking and alcohol consumption advice, specific instructions regarding medications or supplements, and nasal hygiene procedures.
The FESS procedure typically takes one to three hours and is usually performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves the use of an endoscope, a thin flexible tube with a light and camera, inserted through the nostrils to visualize the sinus passages. Specialized instruments are used to remove any obstructive tissues such as polyps, or to enlarge narrow sinus openings, thereby improving sinus drainage and function.
After the surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room for a short period. In most cases, patients are able to go home the same day, though occasionally an overnight hospital stay may be recommended. Soft, absorbable packing may be inserted into the sinuses to support healing and prevent bleeding.
Some degree of nasal congestion and discharge is expected after FESS but will start to improve after a few days. Most patients are able to return to work or school within a week, depending on the recovery rate and the nature of their work.
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to ensure a smooth recovery and to monitor your sinus function. The final results of your FESS might not be fully apparent for a few weeks to a few months, as the sinuses continue to heal and adapt to their improved function.
While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.
Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.
Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.
In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.
For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery
Your personalised quote will be prepared following an in-depth evaluation by our expert surgeon. This includes a thorough assessment of your individual needs, detailed explanation of the procedure, and a tailored approach to best achieve the desired outcomes. The quote considers various elements including surgical supplies, hospital requirements, and the specifics of the surgery itself.
Potential rebates might be available if the procedure is deemed medically necessary by relevant health authorities. Conditions for this include providing evidence supporting the medical necessity of the surgery and a referral from a healthcare professional. Your private health insurance may also provide coverage, so it’s essential to discuss this with your provider.
To find out more information about our procedures, or to book a consultation with one of our surgeons give us a call or complete the form.
