Surgery·Surgery
Sinus surgery FESS
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Sinus surgery (often called Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery or FESS) is a procedure to open blocked sinuses. The sinuses are small, air-filled spaces inside the bones of your face and skull. When they become inflamed or infected for a long time (chronic sinusitis), surgery can help drainage and airflow.
Key facts
- FESS is done through the nostrils – no cuts on the face.
- It is usually for people who have tried medicines for sinus problems but still have symptoms.
- Recovery is often quick, but full healing can take several weeks.
Sinus surgery is a common procedure. Thousands of people have it each year in the UK and around the world.
It mainly affects adults with chronic sinusitis. Children may have it less often, and only if their sinus problems don't get better with standard treatments.