Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery) is a procedure in which the natural openings and ventilation pathways of the sinuses are opened using a thin endoscope advanced through the nostrils. The aim is to widen blocked or narrowed sinus passages so that the sinuses can drain and ventilate naturally again.

It is called 'functional' because no external incision is made and the surrounding tissue is preserved as much as possible. The scope of the procedure is determined by examination and imaging according to the condition of the sinuses and the severity of the complaints.

FESS may be considered in conditions such as chronic sinusitis, recurrent acute sinusitis attacks, or the development of nasal polyps. Conservative approaches such as nasal sprays, rinsing solutions and, where needed, medical treatment are tried first.

When complaints persist despite an adequate course of medical treatment, or when a structural blockage is also present, surgery may be evaluated as an option. Who it is suitable for is determined individually, together with endoscopic examination and tomography findings.

The procedure is carried out with an endoscope placed through the nostrils; under the image projected on a screen, the sinus openings are visualised and the narrowing tissue, polyp or inflamed lining is cleared. There is no incision on the face or outside the nose; all work is carried out from within the nose.

It is most often performed under general anaesthesia, and one or several sinus groups may be addressed depending on how widespread the condition is. Frequently, contributing issues such as a deviated septum can also be assessed in the same session. The duration varies from person to person according to the scope of the procedure.

In the first few days there may be a feeling of fullness in the nose, mild blood-tinged discharge and temporary congestion; these are ordinary parts of healing. Keeping the inside of the nose moist and regular saline rinsing may be recommended to help reduce crusting.

Forceful nose-blowing, heavy lifting and intense exertion may be limited for a while. Full recovery of the nasal lining and settling of ventilation can take weeks; the process varies from person to person, and following the given aftercare advice matters.

After FESS, endoscopic check-ups are planned to monitor healing inside the nose. During these visits, accumulated crusts can be cleaned, the area can be assessed for adhesion formation, and intranasal care can be readjusted when needed.

Sustainable management of underlying conditions such as allergy or a tendency towards polyps is part of long-term follow-up. The frequency and duration of check-ups are determined according to the findings and the course of the complaints.

The decision on suitability is made during an in-person assessment, together with listening to the complaints, an endoscopic nasal examination and, where needed, imaging. In the consultation in İzmir/Bayraklı, expectations, current treatments and possible options are discussed in detail.

For patients coming from abroad, a preliminary assessment can be started online based on shared tomography and history; the definitive plan is nonetheless clarified with an on-site examination. This content is for information only and does not replace medical advice.