Orchard
Mount Alvernia
Is It Really Sinusitis?
Here’s what you can expect as your sinus specialist confirms your diagnosis of sinusitis (or if it is something else):
Step 1:
Assessment of your medical history and symptoms
Step 2:
Examination of the ears, nose and throat for signs of swelling, drainage or blockage
Step 3:
If deemed necessary, further imaging tests (e.g. CT scan) may be arranged
At this point, you will be given a tailored treatment plan, so that you can recover as quickly and fully as possible.
Most Cases of Sinusitis Do Not Require Surgery
Your doctor may think that your case of sinusitis is a mild to moderate one that may resolve with self-care treatments or medications.
Self-Care Treatment
A simple sinusitis infection may be treated with just:
Nasal decongestants (no more than 3-5 days)
Over-the-counter cold and allergy medications
Nasal saline irrigation
Staying hydrated to thin the mucus
Have a humidifier in your room
Medications
Most cases of acute sinusitis resolve on their own without the need for antibiotics.
Antibiotics are more likely to be given for those presenting with:
Fever higher than 39°C
Facial pain and headache
Significant swelling around the eyes
Acute sinusitis is typically treated for 10 to 14 days; whereas chronic sinusitis is typically treated for 2 to 4 weeks.
Further Treatments
Should symptoms persist, other treatments may be considered, such as: allergy shots, avoiding allergy triggers, and corticosteroids in the form of oral medication or a nasal spray.
Finally, in some cases, sinus surgery may be recommended. Surgery is typically done to enlarge the sinus openings and drain the sinuses.
Surgery for Sinusitis
Sinus surgery is a procedure that aims to address chronic sinusitis. It is typically performed endoscopically using specialised instruments to access and clear obstructed sinus pathways. Trapped mucus, polyps, fungal elements, and bony partitions are carefully removed to improve airflow and facilitate natural drainage without compromising the nose and sinus functions.
Endoscopic Nasal & Sinus Surgery
Our sinus specialist clinic offers Endoscopic Nasal & Sinus Surgery, an advanced and minimally invasive procedure to treat serious or recurrent cases of sinusitis
The use of an endoscope allows the sinus surgeon to view the inner structures clearly in real time.
Compared to an open surgery, this can be done through the nostrils without the need for incisions.
Reduces post-operative pain and bleeding
Removes the need for nasal packing, allowing you to breathe normally
Types of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
There are various types of surgery available for treating sinus problems, including:
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) - A thin, flexible endoscope is inserted through the nostril to visualise the sinus cavity. The surgeon then uses surgical tools to widen the openings, and remove infected tissue, polyps, or bony obstructions.
- Balloon Sinuplasty - In this procedure, the surgeon uses an endoscope and catheter to insert a small balloon into the nasal passage. The balloon is then slowly inflated to restructure and widen the sinus opening for improved drainage and airflow without tissue or bone removal.
When Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Needed?
Surgery may be considered if:
- Symptoms do not resolve after 3 months of treatment
- You have multiple episodes of acute sinusitis per year
- You have structural defects or abnormal growths that predispose you to sinus problems (e.g. deviated septum or nasal polyps)
- You have a fungal infection of the sinuses
A/Prof Luke Tan underwent advanced endoscopic sinus surgery training in Scotland and the United States; and since then, over the past 20 years, he has performed many such procedures with good clinical outcomes.
FAQs About Sinus Surgery
How long does endoscopic sinus surgery take?
An endoscopic sinus surgery typically takes approximately 1 to 3 hours to complete, although this may depend on the extent of the surgery and the patient's condition.
Are there any surgical risks or complications?
Endoscopic sinus surgery is generally a safe and effective treatment for chronic sinus conditions, especially when performed by an experienced specialist. However, as with any surgical procedure, endoscopic sinus surgery carries certain risks. These include bleeding, post-operative infection, vision disturbances, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, and recurrent sinus infections.
What to expect after surgery?
After surgery, patients may experience mild nasal discomfort, swelling, congestion, and slight bloody discharge, usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Saline nasal spray may be prescribed to aid healing. Initial recovery takes 1-2 weeks, during which strenuous activities, nose-blowing, and exposure to irritants like smoke or dust should be avoided.
How much does endoscopic sinus surgery cost?
The cost of endoscopic sinus surgery in Singapore varies depending on several factors, including the surgeon's expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and the patient's insurance coverage. Contact us today for a personalised cost estimate.
Contact Information
Orchard
3 Mount Elizabeth,Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Suite 14-17, Singapore 228510
| Tel | : | +65 6474 6116 |
| Fax | : | +65 6737 0816 |
Mount Alvernia
820 Thomson Road, #07-58Mount Alvernia Hospital, Medical Centre D, Singapore 574623
| Tel | : | +65 6252 5528 |
| Fax | : | +65 6252 5526 |
| Whatsapp / SMS | : | +65 9642 3362 |
| : | appointment@luketan-ent.com.sg | |
| Emergency Tel | : | +65 6535 8833 |
Operating Hours
| Monday to Friday | : | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Saturday | : | 9:00 am to 12 Noon |
| Sunday & Public Holiday | : | Closed |
Close for lunch 1pm to 2pm
Need Further Assistance?
Fill out the enquiry form below, or call us at 64746116, if you require a detailed assessment and evidence-based relief of your sinus problems.