Expert Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) in Gurugram

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) at Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram

Overview

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure that opens blocked sinus drainage pathways using a thin viewing instrument called an endoscope. It may help people with persistent sinus inflammation, nasal polyps or other sinus problems that have not improved sufficiently with appropriate medicines.

Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram is one of the best hospitals for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), offering experienced clinical care, advanced diagnostic support and coordinated treatment. Patients receive individual attention from evaluation through follow-up, supporting informed decisions and trusted care.

Book a consultation at Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram to discuss whether functional endoscopic sinus surgery is appropriate for your symptoms.

Why is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) Necessary?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces around the nose that drain mucus through narrow openings. Surgery may become necessary when persistent swelling or abnormal tissue blocks these openings and affects breathing, comfort or daily life.

Conditions That May Require Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

An ear, nose and throat specialist may consider surgery for conditions such as:

• Chronic rhinosinusitis: Inflammation of the nose and sinuses lasts at least 12 weeks despite appropriate medical treatment.
• Nasal polyps: Soft, non-cancerous growths block the nasal passages or sinus openings and may reduce the sense of smell.
• Recurrent acute sinusitis: Separate episodes of sinus infection repeatedly occur and significantly affect health or daily activities.
• Fungal sinus disease: Fungal material or an abnormal immune response to fungi causes blockage and persistent sinus inflammation.
• Sinus mucoceles: Mucus-filled, expanding cyst-like structures obstruct a sinus and may press on nearby tissues.
• Selected sinus tumours: Some benign or malignant growths may be assessed or removed through an endoscopic approach, depending on their location.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Persistent or recurring symptoms that need specialist assessment include:

• Blocked nose: Ongoing congestion makes breathing through one or both sides of the nose difficult.
• Facial pressure: Fullness or discomfort may be felt around the cheeks, forehead or eyes.
• Nasal discharge: Thick mucus may drain from the nose or down the back of the throat.
• Reduced smell: Sinus inflammation or polyps may weaken or remove the ability to smell.
• Repeated infections: Frequent episodes may cause worsening congestion, discharge and facial discomfort.
• Sleep disturbance: Nasal blockage can interrupt sleep and contribute to daytime tiredness.

When Other Treatments Are No Longer Enough

Surgery is generally considered after diagnosis has been confirmed and suitable treatments, such as saline rinses, corticosteroid nasal sprays or condition-specific medicines, have not provided adequate relief. The decision is based on symptoms, nasal endoscopy findings, computed tomography scans and the effect of the condition on everyday life.

Types of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

The procedure is tailored to the affected sinuses and may include:

• Uncinectomy: A small bone and tissue structure is removed to improve access and drainage near the maxillary sinus.
• Maxillary antrostomy: The natural opening of the cheek sinus is enlarged to restore ventilation and mucus drainage.
• Ethmoidectomy: Diseased partitions within the small ethmoid air cells between the nose and eyes are carefully removed.
• Sphenoidotomy: The opening of the sphenoid sinus, located deeper behind the nose, is enlarged when disease affects it.
• Frontal sinusotomy: The drainage pathway of the forehead sinus is opened while preserving healthy tissue where possible.
• Polypectomy: Nasal polyps are removed to improve airflow and allow topical medicines to reach the sinus lining.

Legal and Ethical Requirements in India

Before surgery, the patient or legally authorised representative must provide informed consent after receiving an explanation of the indication, alternatives, expected benefits and material risks. Hospitals also follow applicable Indian requirements for medical records, anaesthesia safety, patient identification and handling of any tissue sent for laboratory examination.

Consult the ENT team at Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram for an individual assessment and treatment recommendation.

Risks of Delaying Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Not everyone with sinus disease needs surgery, but delaying recommended treatment may allow severe or uncontrolled disease to continue. Timing should be decided with an ENT specialist after weighing symptoms, test findings and response to medication.

• Persistent symptoms: Congestion, discharge and facial pressure may continue to interfere with sleep, work and daily comfort.
• Loss of smell: Prolonged inflammation may cause continuing smell impairment, which may not always recover fully.
• Frequent flare-ups: Recurrent infections can lead to repeated courses of treatment and additional time away from usual activities.
• Worsening polyp blockage: Enlarging polyps may further restrict nasal airflow and sinus drainage.
• Eye complications: Rarely, infection can spread to tissues around the eye, causing swelling, pain, impaired movement or vision problems.
• Intracranial infection: Very rarely, severe sinus infection can spread toward the brain coverings or brain and require emergency treatment.

Prompt review is especially important when symptoms worsen suddenly or involve the eyes, severe headache or neurological changes.

Arrange an evaluation at Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram if persistent sinus symptoms are affecting your health or quality of life.

Benefits of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

By treating blockage through the nostrils, functional endoscopic sinus surgery may offer several benefits:

• Improved drainage: Enlarged natural pathways help mucus leave the sinuses more effectively.
• Better nasal breathing: Removing obstructing tissue may reduce congestion and improve airflow.
• Reduced symptom burden: Many suitable patients experience less pressure, discharge or frequency of infection.
• Improved medicine delivery: Nasal rinses and sprays can reach the opened sinus cavities more effectively after healing.
• No external incision: Most standard procedures are performed entirely through the nostrils without visible facial scars.
• Tissue preservation: The surgeon aims to remove disease while retaining as much healthy sinus lining as possible.

Results vary according to the diagnosis, severity of disease, general health and adherence to follow-up care. Some long-term inflammatory conditions require ongoing medication even after successful surgery.

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram provides coordinated sinus care focused on accurate diagnosis, safe treatment and clear patient communication.

• ENT expertise: Skilled specialists assess complex nasal and sinus conditions and select treatment according to individual findings.
• Advanced visualisation: Endoscopic equipment gives the surgeon a magnified view of narrow nasal passages during assessment and surgery.
• Diagnostic support: Nasal endoscopy, imaging and laboratory services assist in identifying disease extent and planning treatment.
• Multidisciplinary care: ENT surgeons can coordinate with anaesthesiology, radiology, pathology and other relevant specialties when needed.
• Patient safety: Structured preoperative assessment and monitored postoperative care support safe clinical decision-making.
• Individual planning: The surgical approach is matched to the affected sinuses rather than applying the same operation to every patient.
• Continuity of care: Follow-up visits help clinicians monitor healing, clear crusts and adjust medicines.
• Patient trust: Clear explanations and shared decisions help patients understand their options and participate confidently in care.

Preparation for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Clinical Assessment

Your specialist will confirm the diagnosis and assess whether surgery is suitable.

• Share your history: Describe symptom duration, previous infections, allergies, asthma and earlier nasal procedures.
• Complete recommended tests: Attend nasal endoscopy, sinus imaging or blood tests requested by the clinical team.
• Discuss expectations: Ask which sinuses will be treated and what improvement is realistic for your condition.

Medicine Review

Provide a complete list of prescription medicines, supplements and non-prescription products.

• Blood-thinning medicines: Ask the treating doctor whether anticoagulants or antiplatelet medicines need adjustment; never stop them independently.
• Diabetes treatment: Follow specific instructions about tablets or insulin while fasting.
• Preoperative therapy: Use prescribed nasal sprays, rinses, antibiotics or corticosteroids exactly as directed.

Anaesthesia Planning

Most procedures use general anaesthesia, which keeps the patient unconscious and pain-free during surgery.

• Report health conditions: Tell the anaesthesia team about heart, lung or kidney problems and previous reactions to anaesthesia.
• Declare allergies: Mention allergies to medicines, latex, adhesives or antiseptic products.
• Follow fasting instructions: Stop food and fluids at the times provided to reduce anaesthesia-related risks.

Lifestyle Preparation

Healthy practical measures can support anaesthesia safety and healing.

• Avoid smoking: Stop smoking or vaping as advised because nicotine and smoke can irritate tissues and delay recovery.
• Avoid alcohol: Follow the clinical team’s guidance on avoiding alcohol before the procedure.
• Report illness: Inform the hospital if you develop fever, chest symptoms or a new infection before surgery.

Planning for Surgery Day

Prepare transport and home support before arriving at the hospital.

• Arrange an escort: A responsible adult should take you home and stay with you as advised after anaesthesia.
• Leave valuables home: Bring only necessary documents, medicines and personal items.
• Follow admission guidance: Arrive at the stated time with identification and relevant medical records.

Recovery After Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Early Recovery

Mild bleeding, stuffiness, pressure and tiredness are common during the first few days.

• Rest properly: Keep your head elevated while resting to help limit swelling and congestion.
• Manage discomfort: Take only prescribed or approved pain medicines at the recommended dose.
• Protect the nose: Do not blow your nose until the surgeon confirms that it is safe.

Nasal Care

Postoperative care helps remove mucus and supports healthy healing.

• Use saline rinses: Begin sterile saline irrigation at the time and frequency recommended by your surgeon.
• Avoid nose picking: Do not disturb clots, crusts, splints or packing inside the nose.
• Use sprays correctly: Restart corticosteroid or other nasal sprays only according to medical instructions.

Activity and Diet

Return to normal routines gradually according to your clinician’s advice.

• Avoid straining: Do not lift heavy objects, bend repeatedly or perform strenuous exercise during early healing.
• Sneeze safely: Keep your mouth open when sneezing to reduce pressure inside the nose.
• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate fluids and choose nutritious meals unless another medical condition limits intake.
• Delay swimming: Avoid pools and potentially contaminated water until your surgeon permits them.

Follow-Up Care

Scheduled reviews are an essential part of recovery rather than an optional extra.

• Attend appointments: The surgeon may gently clean dried blood and crusts while checking sinus healing.
• Continue long-term care: Allergies, asthma or chronic inflammation may still require regular treatment.
• Discuss returning to work: Timing depends on the extent of surgery, job demands and individual recovery.

Warning Signs That Need Urgent Medical Attention

Contact the hospital promptly or seek emergency care for the following concerns:

• Heavy bleeding: Continuous bright-red bleeding or blood loss that does not settle requires urgent assessment.
• Eye changes: New swelling around an eye, double vision, reduced vision or severe eye pain needs immediate care.
• Clear watery drainage: Persistent one-sided fluid resembling water may rarely indicate leakage of fluid surrounding the brain.
• Severe symptoms: High fever, worsening headache, neck stiffness, confusion or repeated vomiting requires urgent evaluation.

Take the Next Step Towards Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) Care

Early specialist evaluation can clarify the cause of persistent sinus symptoms and whether medical or surgical treatment is suitable. Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram is one of the best hospitals for Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), with advanced care, multidisciplinary support and treatment centred on patient needs.

Bring the following documents to help the specialist review your condition:

• Identification: Carry valid photo identification and hospital registration details, if available.
• Medical records: Bring previous consultation notes, discharge summaries and details of earlier operations.
• Test reports: Include sinus scans, nasal endoscopy findings, laboratory reports and allergy assessments.
• Medicine list: Record all current medicines, inhalers, nasal sprays and supplements with their doses.
• Health information: Note medicine allergies, existing illnesses and previous anaesthesia-related problems.

Book a consultation with the ENT team at Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram for personalised sinus care and clear guidance about your treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

What are the risks of functional endoscopic sinus surgery?

Common effects include temporary nasal blockage, mild bleeding, crusting, discomfort and reduced smell during healing. Less common risks include infection, persistent symptoms or scar tissue. Rare complications can affect the eye or vision, while leakage of fluid surrounding the brain is very uncommon. Anaesthesia also carries individual risks. Your surgeon will explain how your diagnosis, anatomy, medicines and general health influence your personal risk profile.

How will I know whether I need functional endoscopic sinus surgery?

An ENT specialist may recommend surgery when persistent or recurrent sinus disease is confirmed and suitable medical treatment has not controlled symptoms adequately. Assessment usually considers your clinical history, examination, nasal endoscopy and computed tomography findings. The effect on breathing, smell, sleep and daily activities also matters. Surgery is not automatically required for every sinus infection, and the decision should follow an individual discussion of alternatives and expected outcomes.

How can I schedule a consultation at Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram?

You can contact Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram through its official appointment channels to request an ENT consultation. When booking, mention your ongoing nasal or sinus symptoms and whether you have previous scans or treatment records. Bring identification, medical reports and an updated medicine list to the visit. The specialist will assess your condition, explain any further tests and discuss whether continued medical care or surgery is the more suitable option.

Which specialists are involved in functional endoscopic sinus surgery?

Care is led by an ENT surgeon with expertise in disorders of the nose and sinuses. An anaesthesiologist evaluates you before surgery and monitors you throughout the procedure. Radiology specialists support interpretation of sinus imaging, while pathology professionals may examine removed tissue when indicated. Depending on the condition, other specialists may contribute to care, particularly when allergies, asthma, eye involvement or another medical concern requires coordinated management.

How long does recovery take after functional endoscopic sinus surgery?

Recovery varies with the extent of surgery, the underlying disease and the type of work you perform. Many patients experience congestion, light blood-stained discharge and tiredness for several days, while internal healing continues for weeks. Return to work and exercise should follow the surgeon’s advice. Regular saline rinses and follow-up cleaning may be needed, and ongoing nasal medication is sometimes recommended to control chronic inflammation and reduce recurrence.

Medical Disclaimer: This content provides general educational information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Suitability for functional endoscopic sinus surgery, expected benefits, possible risks and recovery differ between individuals; consult an ENT specialist for recommendations based on your condition.