What Is Nasal Polyp Surgery (Polypectomy)?

Nasal polyp surgery, also known as polypectomy, is a specialized surgical procedure designed to remove abnormal tissue growths called nasal polyps from the nasal passages and sinuses. These polyps are soft, noncancerous, and usually painless, but they often develop due to chronic inflammation caused by allergies, recurrent sinus infections, or long-term irritations.

Small polyps may not cause symptoms, but larger ones can lead to:

• Blocked airways

• Reduced or lost sense of smell

• Breathing difficulties

• Frequent sinus infections

The goal of polypectomy is to restore normal breathing, improve airflow, and reduce the risk of chronic sinus complications.

How Nasal Polyp Surgery Is Performed

Nasal polyp surgery is usually recommended when medications fail to control symptoms. The procedure may involve different approaches:

1. Preparation Before Surgery

• Detailed medical evaluation, including history of allergies, medications, and chronic conditions

• Imaging tests such as CT scans to assess the size and location of the polyps

2. Anesthesia

• Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the surgery

• General anesthesia is more common for extensive or deep sinus procedures

3. Surgical Techniques

• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery:
  
  The most common method. A thin, flexible tube called an endoscope (with a camera) is inserted through the nostrils. Using special instruments, the surgeon removes polyps with precision while preserving healthy tissue.

• Laser Surgery:
  
  In selected cases, small polyps may be removed using a laser. This less invasive method often allows for quicker recovery.

• Open Surgery:
  
  Rarely performed, but necessary for very large or complex polyps. This involves larger incisions for better access to the affected areas.

4. Removal of Polyps

Regardless of the method, the surgeon carefully extracts the polyps to open the nasal passages and may enlarge sinus openings to improve drainage.

5. Post-Surgery Packing

Nasal packing (gauze or absorbent material) may be placed inside the nose to control bleeding and support healing.

Recovery After Nasal Polyp Surgery

• Initial recovery takes a few weeks, but complete healing may require several months

• Patients should avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and exposure to dust or smoke

• Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are essential to monitor healing and prevent recurrence

Aftercare and Post-Operative Care

• Use saline nasal sprays or rinses to keep passages clean

• Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they delay healing

• Take prescribed anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics to reduce infection risk

• Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling

• Follow all aftercare instructions given by the surgeon

Benefits of Nasal Polyp Surgery

• Restores nasal airflow and breathing

• Improves sense of smell and taste

• Reduces frequency of sinus infections and headaches

• Prevents long-term complications of chronic sinusitis

How to Know If You Have Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps often cause symptoms such as:

• Persistent nasal congestion

• Reduced sense of smell

• Frequent nasal discharge

• Headaches or facial pressure

• Breathing difficulties

If you experience chronic nasal obstruction, runny nose, or sinus problems that do not improve with medication, you may have nasal polyps. For an accurate diagnosis, doctors typically use endoscopic examination or CT scans of the sinuses.

Side Effects of Nasal Polyp Surgery

Although nasal polyp surgery is effective and minimally invasive compared to open sinus surgery, it can still involve certain risks:

Common Side Effects

• Mild nosebleeds that may last for a few weeks

• Nasal blockage and crusting due to dried blood inside the nose

• Swelling and possible sinus infection (usually controlled with antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications)

Rare Complications

• Tear duct injury → excessive tearing if polyps are close to the lacrimal duct

• Vision problems → in very rare cases, damage near the optic nerve can lead to reduced or lost vision

• Skull base injury → extremely rare, but may cause cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage

• Anesthesia-related risks → such as nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, or breathing issues

Can Nasal Polyps Cause Shortness of Breath?

✅ Yes. Large nasal polyps can block the nasal airways, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Over time, this can contribute to shortness of breath, sleep disturbances, and even reduced oxygen levels if untreated.

Can Nasal Polyps Cause Bad Breath?

✅ Yes. When nasal polyps block airflow, patients often breathe through the mouth, which causes dry mouth and bad breath. Additionally, mucus buildup and recurrent sinus infections associated with nasal polyps can worsen halitosis.

Cost of Nasal Polyp Surgery

The cost of nasal polyp surgery depends on several factors:

• Surgeon’s expertise and experience

• Type of procedure (endoscopic, laser, or open surgery)

• Hospital or clinic location

• Additional care such as tests, medications, and follow-up visits

On average:

• In the U.S., costs range from $2,000 – $5,000 (without insurance)

• In other regions, prices vary based on medical facilities and healthcare systems

Aftercare Following Nasal Polyp Surgery

Proper aftercare is crucial for preventing complications and recurrence:

• Avoid dusty, smoky, or polluted environments

• Stop smoking and alcohol for at least 2 weeks

• Avoid hot drinks (tea, coffee) for 2 weeks to reduce bleeding risk

• Take prescribed pain relievers and antibiotics as directed

• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting in the first weeks

• Do not drive for at least 1 week if taking sedatives or strong painkillers

• Keep your nasal passages clean with saline rinses

• Contact your doctor immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain

By following these care tips, patients can reduce the risk of polyp recurrence and ensure a smoother recovery.

Nasal Packing After Polyp Surgery

Immediately after nasal polyp surgery, a small gauze or nasal dressing is usually placed under the nose to absorb excess blood and discharge. This nasal packing helps:

• Control post-operative bleeding

• Reduce the risk of blood clot formation

• Keep the surgical site clean

It is normal to experience light bleeding for 3–5 days after surgery. During this time:

• Check the gauze regularly and replace it when saturated with blood

• Keep the nasal area clean with gentle rinses and saline sprays as prescribed

• Contact your doctor immediately if you experience heavy or unusual bleeding

What to Eat After Nasal Polyp Surgery

A proper diet plays a key role in recovery and preventing complications such as dehydration or constipation. During the first week, focus on:

✅ Recommended Foods

• Soft foods: mashed potatoes, eggs, yogurt, vegetable soup, oatmeal

• Fiber-rich foods: fresh or cooked vegetables, fruits, whole-grain bread (to prevent constipation)

• Hydration: drink plenty of water and non-caffeinated fluids to keep nasal tissues moist and support healing

• Vitamin-rich foods: especially vitamin C and antioxidants (berries, oranges, leafy greens) to boost immunity and speed up wound healing

❌ Foods & Drinks to Avoid

• Hot drinks like tea and coffee (risk of increasing bleeding)

• Caffeinated and carbonated beverages (cause dehydration)

• Spicy or acidic foods that may irritate nasal tissues

How Long Does Nasal Polyp Surgery Take?

The duration of nasal polyp surgery varies depending on the number, size, and location of the polyps, as well as whether additional procedures are performed:

• Standard nasal polyp surgery: 30 minutes to 1 hour

• Combined with septoplasty or cosmetic rhinoplasty: 2–4 hours

• Complex cases: may take longer depending on patient condition and surgical method (endoscopic, laser, or open surgery)

Best Age for Nasal Polyp Surgery

The best age for nasal polyp surgery depends on the patient’s condition and the severity of symptoms.

• Children under 10: Surgery is rarely recommended unless symptoms are severe and cause serious breathing problems.

• Ages 10–18: Surgery may be considered only if symptoms are chronic, severe, and significantly affect quality of life.

• Adults over 18: Nasal polyp surgery can be performed based on the patient’s specific condition and the surgeon’s assessment.

Ultimately, the decision should always be made after a thorough evaluation by a specialist.

Types of Nasal Polyp Surgery

Nasal polyp surgery aims to remove soft, noncancerous growths caused by chronic inflammation, allergies, or recurrent sinus infections. The method chosen depends on the size, location, and number of polyps.

1. Nasal Polyp Surgery Without General Anesthesia

• Performed under local anesthesia in cases where polyps are large but easily accessible at the front of the nasal cavity

• A tool called a microdebrider is used to cut and suction polyps simultaneously

• Quick recovery and less invasive, suitable for simple cases

2. Endoscopic Nasal Polyp Surgery

• The most common and effective approach for polyps located deeper in the sinuses

• A thin, flexible endoscope with a camera and light is inserted through the nostrils

• Polyps are carefully removed with small instruments, and sinus openings may be widened to improve airflow

• Minimally invasive, highly precise, shorter recovery time

3. Laser Nasal Polyp Surgery

• Suitable for small or accessible polyps

• Uses laser heat to destroy polyps while sealing small blood vessels, minimizing bleeding

• Sometimes used as a complementary technique alongside traditional surgery for larger or hard-to-reach polyps

• Less invasive with shorter downtime

4. Nasal Polyp Surgery with General Anesthesia

• Recommended for very large or complex polyps located deep in the sinuses

• The patient is under full anesthesia, allowing the surgeon to carefully remove the growths and correct sinus issues

• Longer duration and recovery, often requiring closer post-operative care

Who Is a Candidate for Nasal Polyp Surgery?

Surgery may be suitable for patients with:

• Asthma and chronic breathing problems

• Obstructive sleep apnea caused by nasal polyps

• Recurrent or severe sinus infections

• Loss of smell or taste due to nasal obstruction

• Fungal sinusitis

• Cystic fibrosis-related nasal polyps

Contraindications for Nasal Polyp Surgery

Surgery is not recommended for:

• • Patients without significant symptoms or those controlled with medication

  • Individuals with severe heart disease

  • Patients with uncontrolled respiratory conditions

  • Those with active infections that could complicate the surgery