Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, or FESS, is a modern, minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinus problems that do not improve with medication. By using a small, high-definition endoscope, your ENT surgeon can access and open the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses without external cuts or scars.

FESS aims to restore normal sinus function, relieve congestion, and reduce the frequency of infections, while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

When is FESS Recommended?

You may be a candidate for FESS if you experience:

• Chronic sinusitis lasting longer than 12 weeks
• Recurrent sinus infections that don’t respond to antibiotics or nasal sprays
• Nasal obstruction or congestion
• Facial pressure or pain linked to sinus disease
• Loss of sense of smell
• Nasal polyps
• Postnasal drip or sinus-related headaches

FESS is often recommended when conservative therapies, such as nasal steroid sprays or antibiotics, are no longer effective.

Conditions Treated with FESS

• Chronic sinusitis (with or without nasal polyps)
• Recurrent or severe acute sinus infections
• Sinus mucoceles
• Fungal sinusitis
• Deviated septum (often corrected at the same time)
• Obstructed sinus drainage pathways

How the Procedure Works

• Anaesthesia: Most procedures are performed under general anaesthetic
• Endoscopic access: A thin endoscope is inserted through the nostrils to access the sinuses
• No external cuts: All work is performed inside the nose, avoiding facial scars
• Treatment: Blocked or inflamed sinus openings are widened, and polyps or infected tissue may be removed
• Duration: Surgery usually takes 1–2 hours, depending on complexity
• Day surgery: Most patients return home the same day

Recovery After FESS

Recovery is typically quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a week. Some temporary congestion, mild bleeding, or nasal discharge is normal. Nasal packing is rarely required.

You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions, including the use of saline rinses. Regular follow-up visits are crucial for supporting healing and minimising the risk of scarring or recurrence.

Benefits of FESS

• Long-term relief from congestion, facial pressure, and sinus infections
• Improved sense of smell and easier breathing
• Reduced reliance on antibiotics or decongestant medications
• Minimally invasive with no visible scarring
• Shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery