Do Nasal Polyps Require Surgery?
Nasal polyps are bulbous growths of soft tissue in the nasal passages that can block drainage. They develop on mucous membranes, and although they aren’t cancerous, they’re far from problem-free and can lead to frustrating symptoms such as:
- Stuffy, runny, or “blocked” nose
- Chronic sinusitis
- Postnasal drip
- Sneezing
- Facial pain or pressure
- Nasal discharge
- Diminished sense of smell and/or taste
- Itchy eyes
They’re often associated with upper respiratory conditions that trigger chronic inflammation, including environmental allergies. When not treated, they increase your risk of developing sinus infections, sleep apnea, and an increase in asthma attacks.
The board-certified ear-nose-throat (ENT) providers at Jacksonville ENT Surgery in Jacksonville and Lake City, Florida, offer personalized treatment plans for nasal polyps — including minimally invasive endoscopic surgery when necessary.
Keep reading to learn more about the different treatment options available for these pesky soft-tissue growths.
Nonsurgical treatments for nasal polyps
Surgery isn’t typically the first line of defense against nasal polyps. At Jacksonville ENT Surgery, our providers begin with conservative, nonsurgical treatments first. This usually includes nasal sprays and saline irrigation to help keep your nasal passages moist, or steroid therapies to reduce inflammation.
Since nasal polyps often develop in conjunction with conditions like allergies, chronic sinusitis, or asthma, treatments also focus on helping manage these conditions. Once these associated conditions are better controlled, nasal polyps often become less problematic.
Besides anti-inflammatory medicine and nasal sprays/irrigation, nonsurgical treatments for nasal polyps include:
- Medicine to reduce the size of the polyps
- SINUVA® implant to help shrink polyps
- Balloon sinuplasty to open nasal passages
- Immunotherapy to help control allergies
Your Jacksonville ENT Surgery provider evaluates your symptoms and health history to create a personalized nasal polyp treatment plan to meet your needs.
When nasal polyps require surgery
If nonsurgical treatments don’t help improve your symptoms, or in cases where nasal polyps grow so large they significantly impact your quality of life, our providers may recommend surgical removal.
At Jacksonville ENT Surgery, our providers use the most advanced endoscopic surgery techniques to remove your nasal polyps. Unlike old surgical methods, this type of surgery uses specialized tools to minimize damage to your sinuses and promote faster healing.
During the procedure, your surgeon inserts a lighted tube with a camera into your sinus cavities. They then use tiny tools to remove the polyps and any other tissues or substances blocking your sinuses.
Your provider may place PROPEL® mesh, an implant containing a slow-release steroid, in your nasal passage during your surgery. This device helps keep your nasal passages open and minimizes swelling. It dissolves on its own over time, so there’s no need for repeat surgery.
Ready to find out the best treatment options for your nasal polyps? Schedule a consultation online or over the phone at the Jacksonville ENT Surgery office nearest you.