Endoscopic surgery for nasal obstruction
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Endoscopic surgery can help to widen sinus openings and alleviate symptoms of nasal obstruction and sinusitis.
What is a nasal obstruction?
Need to know
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What happens endoscopic surgery? icon plus
Also known as endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), this procedure uses an endoscope – a thin, illuminated, flexible tube that can look deep inside the body. This allows the consultant to get a better view of the inside of your nose. Using special instruments, they will enlarge the sinus openings by removing abnormal tissues to improve airflow and drainage in the nasal passages. After the procedure, they may put a dressing or splints inside your nose. -
How to prepare icon plus
The treatment is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, which means you'll be asleep. It takes one to two hours.
It is generally a very safe and simple procedure, but in some cases, there may be some risks and side effects involved. These may include:- bleeding – a small amount of bleeding for around a week after the operation is common. Speak to your consultant if it goes on for longer than a month or is very heavy.
- infection – sometimes the operation can cause swelling in the sinuses, leading to infection.
- pain – you may feel some pain or discomfort, which can generally be treated with mild painkillers.
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After surgery icon plus
You should be able to go home on the day of your operation, although it’s sometimes necessary to stay in overnight.
Your nose is likely to continue to feel blocked for some time after the treatment. Try not to blow your nose for at least a week afterwards - a nasal spray may be provided to help clear your nose and reduce the chances of infection. You can also rinse your nose with salt water to help to keep it clean.
It’s a good idea to take up to one week off work to give you time to recover.
Our ENT consultants
Our locations in London
From complex throat surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures for the ear and throat, we provide exceptional ENT care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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The Endoscopy Centre
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
Private Nasal obstruction surgery in Birmingham
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The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way
Birmingham B15 2FQ
Contact us about ENT appointments
Our helpline advisors can assist with enquiries about booking an appointment with a specialist.