Sinus Surgery Revision

After a person undergoes initial sinus surgery to correct a nasal problem, they usually experience a great deal of prolonged relief.  However, as life continues, it’s not uncommon for pre-existing sinus conditions to relapse or recur, or new symptoms to develop potentially requiring another sinus surgery… known as a revision.

In almost all cases, revision sinus surgery helps increase the chances of permanently solving your sinus problems. As with all surgeries, there is a chance of needing a procedure performed again, however those odds are extremely low.

SINUS SURGERIES THAT CAN BE REVISED

Virtually any sinus surgery can be revised. However, the most common repeat procedures include:

Performed by a board-certified ear, nose, and throat doctor and rhinology expert, revision procedures are typically done using minimally invasive, endoscopic techniques that can resolve the problem without a lengthy recovery period.

WHY IS REVISION SURGERY NECESSARY?

A second sinus surgery is typically necessary due to a chronic, inflammatory sinus condition that persists after the initial operation. Even when initial sinus surgery is successful, severe infection or other factors could make revision sinus surgery necessary.  The actual reason you need a revision can come down to several factors that are not always identifiable.

Some of the causes that can lead a patient to seek revision sinus surgery include:

  • Persistent infections
  • Scar tissue development
  • Insufficient tissue removal in a previous surgery
  • Inadequate drainage (often because of scar tissue development or insufficient tissue removal)
  • Delayed complications of the initial surgery
  • Incomplete or incorrectly performed sinus surgery
  • New sinus issues
  • Wrong diagnosis
  • Recurrence or appearance of nasal polyps
  • Re-development of chronic sinusitis several years later
  • Condition is/was especially severe and not adequately treated with one procedure

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Any of the following signs and symptoms (persistent or new) after sinus surgery may be an indication that a revision is necessary.  An assessment with the rhinologist can help determine the symptom origins.

  • Recurring sinus infections
  • Extreme post-nasal drip or runny nose
  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Sinus headaches/pressure
  • General fatigue and discomfort in the sinus cavities
  • Sinus headaches
  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Continued congestion
  • Recurrent sinus infections
  • Trouble breathing
  • Changes in taste or smell
  • Facial swelling
  • Sore throat
  • Chronic postnasal drip