Three Tips to Prepare for Sinus Surgery

October 25, 2022

An Introduction to Sinus Surgery

Sinus surgery is a procedure used by physicians to treat chronic sinusitis, remove nasal polyps, and treat other conditions related to the sinuses. Most people who have sinus surgery undergo it because their condition doesn’t get better or isn’t manageable with medication.

With the advancement of science and technology, less invasive and highly effective procedures are available.


What to Expect if You Are Having Sinus Surgery

●    Before the procedure, a pre-operative CT scan of the sinuses will be done to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. Testing may include a couple of blood tests, studying your medical history, and a nasal endoscopy.

●    During the procedure, you often be given general, although some procedures are also performed in the office.

●    Post-surgery, you’ll rest in the recovery room while your anesthesia wears off.

●    Since most sinus surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures, you may be able to go home right after. Of course, you cannot drive yourself home and will require someone to accompany you.


Some Tips to Help You Prepare for Sinus Surgery

1. Discuss the Procedure in Detail With Your Provider

Talk with your physician about the procedure. Ask questions. It's important to get an understanding of the surgery and its risks, so ask your doctor or surgeon how they plan to do it, what the recovery period will be like, and what you should expect after surgery. Get answers before you agree. Before making any final decision about whether or not to have sinus surgery, talk through your options with your medical provider.



2. Manage Your Medications

Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Make sure to ask if there are any medications that should be stopped prior to surgery, as well as how long after surgery it is safe to begin taking them again.

If you are taking blood thinners, ask your doctor about the risks of surgery. Blood thinners can cause excessive bleeding during and after sinus surgery, so discuss this with your physician before proceeding with the procedure. If you are taking aspirin or ibuprofen, ask your doctor about alternatives that can help alleviate symptoms without increasing the risk of bleeding during and after sinus surgery.


3. Quit Smoking

If you are a smoker, please stop smoking at least three weeks before your surgery. Smoking is notorious for worsening your sinus symptoms. Ask your healthcare provider for advice or resources to help with this.


Here are a few other tips to follow, if applicable.


●    Bring someone with you. You won’t be able to drive yourself home.

●    Make arrangements for child or pet care, at least for a couple of days, unless you have friends or family helping you out.

●    Remember to fast from midnight on the day of your surgery. Choking on food during anesthesia is a very real risk that you want to avoid at all costs.

 

 

If you want to discuss your options further, or want to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, get in touch with our team at ENT Medical and Surgical Group! We would be happy to discuss your options and address any concerns you may have. Contact us today to get started!



A teenage boy with hearing problems is using a hearing aid.

How Do I Know If I Need a Hearing Aid?

March 3, 2025
Hearing is something we often don't think about until it becomes a problem. For some people, changes in hearing happen slowly and can be hard to notice at first. So, how can you tell if you might need a hearing aid? Here are some signs to look for and what to do if you think your hearing might not be as sharp as it used to be.
A woman is experiencing Thyroid Disorder Symptoms

When to Consult an ENT Specialist for Thyroid Disorder Symptoms

February 10, 2025
Thyroid disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, plays an integral role in regulating the body's metabolism, energy production, and overall health. When something goes wrong with the thyroid, it can lead to a range of symptoms that may affect various bodily functions. Recognizing these symptoms early helps manage the condition effectively.
Surgeons operating sinus tumors

What to Expect During Sinus Tumor Surgery

January 24, 2025
Sinus tumors can develop in the nasal cavity or the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces in the skull that connect to the nose. Surgery is often recommended to remove the tumor and prevent it from causing further complications. The exact nature of the surgery depends on the location, size, and type of tumor and whether it has spread
A black and white photo of a bald man wearing glasses and hearing aid

How Hearing Aids Can Help with Hearing Loss

January 7, 2025
Hearing is essential to our daily lives, connecting us to conversations, experiences, and the world around us. For most people, it can take a while to recognize a hearing problem and take appropriate action. The sooner you take action, the more it helps you. If you’ve been wondering whether hearing aids might be right for you, understanding the signs of hearing loss can help you make that decision and start taking appropriate action.
A woman in a white sweater suffering from blocked ears is looking down with her eyes closed.

How to Unblock an Ear During a Cold

December 28, 2024
A blocked ear is a common problem during or after a cold. It can make hearing muffled, cause discomfort, and sometimes lead to dizziness. This happens because colds can affect the eustachian tube, a small canal connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat. When the tube becomes inflamed or clogged with mucus, it disrupts the normal pressure in the ear, causing that blocked feeling. If you’re dealing with this, here’s how to address it safely and effectively.
A woman is laying in bed blowing her nose into a napkin.

How Long Do Sinus Infections Last?

December 10, 2024
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become swollen or inflamed. This inflammation can cause blockages and lead to nasal congestion, facial pain, pressure, and a stuffy nose. The infection can be triggered by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or allergens. Knowing how long it lasts and the factors influencing its duration can help individuals manage their symptoms effectively.
A woman is sitting on a couch wrapped in a blanket.

Effective Remedies to Relieve a Sore Throat

November 29, 2024
A sore throat can be irritating and uncomfortable, making simple actions like swallowing or talking challenging. It often accompanies colds, flu, and allergies, causing pain and inflammation in the throat. The good news is that there are effective, simple remedies that can bring relief.
A woman is covering her ears while a man snores in the background.

How to Stop Snoring

November 12, 2024
Snoring is more than just a nighttime issue; it can indicate something is wrong with your body. Many people may brush it off as a harmless habit, but for some, snoring can disrupt sleep patterns, lead to daytime fatigue, and even strain relationships. Moreover, it can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions like sleep apnea. Understanding the reasons behind snoring and finding effective ways to address it can make a big difference in sleep quality and overall well-being.
portrait of a woman experiencing dizziness

How Do You Know If Dizziness Is Serious?

October 29, 2024
Dizziness is something almost everyone experiences at some point. It refers to a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling like the world is spinning. It can have many causes, from dehydration to anxiety or even changes in your inner ear. Though uncomfortable, dizziness usually resolves on its own. However, sometimes it can be a sign of a more significant problem.
A doctor is examining a man 's ear with an otoscope.

How To Relieve an Ear Infection

October 15, 2024
Ear infections are common and can cause significant discomfort. They often occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup. While most of them are not serious, they can be painful and disruptive. Knowing how to relieve an ear infection can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
More Posts
Share by: