Chronic Sinusitis Treatment in Los Angeles

Sinus surgery is typically considered when a patient has been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis, has completed a full course of appropriate medical treatment including nasal steroids and at least one antibiotic course when indicated, and continues to experience significant symptoms. A CT scan and nasal endoscopy are used to evaluate anatomy and confirm whether a surgical approach is appropriate for your specific situation.

Most patients report that sinus surgery is less painful than they anticipated. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel anything during the surgery itself. Postoperative discomfort is typically described as mild to moderate and is well managed with over-the-counter pain relievers for the majority of patients. Pressure and congestion in the first few days are more commonly reported than significant pain.

Most patients return to light activity within three to five days and resume full activities, including exercise, within two to three weeks. Complete healing of the sinus lining can take six to eight weeks or longer, depending on the extent of surgery. Regular follow-up visits during the recovery period are important for cleaning the sinuses and monitoring healing progress.

Sinus surgery restores normal sinus anatomy and drainage pathways, which significantly reduces symptoms for most patients. However, sinusitis can recur in some individuals, particularly those with nasal polyps, allergies, or asthma. Ongoing medical management after surgery, including nasal rinses and topical steroids, is an important part of maintaining long-term results and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small balloon catheter is used to gently expand blocked sinus openings without removing tissue. It is best suited for patients with less severe or complex sinus disease who have not responded fully to medical management. Patients with extensive polyps, significantly abnormal anatomy, or prior sinus surgery may be better served by traditional functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Our surgeons will review your CT scan and clinical history to determine which approach is right for you.

Yes. Allergic rhinitis causes persistent nasal inflammation that can block sinus drainage pathways and create conditions favorable for chronic sinusitis. Many patients with chronic sinusitis have an underlying allergic component that requires treatment alongside sinus-specific care. Allergy testing and treatment, which may include immunotherapy, can be an important part of a comprehensive sinusitis management plan.

Yes. Many patients with chronic sinusitis achieve meaningful improvement with a combination of nasal saline rinses, corticosteroid nasal sprays, oral corticosteroids for flares, allergy management, and when appropriate, antibiotic therapy. Newer biologic medications are also available for patients with severe polyp-related sinusitis. Medical treatment is always the first-line approach, and surgery is considered when it has not provided sufficient relief.

Nasal endoscopy is an in-office diagnostic procedure in which a thin, flexible scope with a small camera is gently guided through the nasal passages. It allows the physician to directly visualize the interior of the sinuses and identify any structural abnormalities, polyps, or signs of infection. The procedure is performed after the application of a topical decongestant and anesthetic spray to minimize discomfort. Most patients tolerate it well and report only mild pressure or a sensation of fullness during the exam.

Yes. Reduced or absent sense of smell is one of the hallmark symptoms of chronic sinusitis, particularly in patients with nasal polyps. Inflammation and congestion can physically block odorant molecules from reaching the smell receptors located high in the nasal cavity. For many patients, successful treatment of the underlying sinusitis results in noticeable improvement in smell function, although recovery can take time and is not uniform across all patients.

Before your appointment, it is helpful to write down a clear summary of your symptoms including when they started, how they have changed over time, and what treatments you have already tried. Bring a list of all current medications, any relevant imaging such as prior CT scans, and documentation of previous ENT visits or procedures. The more information you can share at your first visit, the more efficiently we can develop a targeted evaluation and treatment plan for you.

There is a well-established relationship between chronic sinusitis and asthma. The two conditions frequently coexist and can worsen each other. The upper and lower airways are connected, and inflammation in the sinuses can trigger or aggravate lower airway symptoms. Patients with both conditions often see improvement in asthma control when their sinusitis is adequately treated, and vice versa. Our team coordinates care with pulmonologists and allergists when needed to address both conditions together.

Yes, although the diagnostic criteria and management approach differ somewhat from those used in adults. In children, chronic sinusitis may present with persistent cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, and mouth breathing rather than the facial pressure and headache more typical in adults. Adenoid enlargement is a common contributing factor in pediatric cases. A thorough evaluation by a specialist familiar with pediatric sinus anatomy is important for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, benign growths that develop from the inflamed lining of the sinuses or nasal passages. They are most commonly found in patients with chronic sinusitis, asthma, or aspirin sensitivity. Small polyps may respond to topical corticosteroid sprays or short courses of oral steroids. Larger polyps that block the nasal passages or contribute to significant sinusitis typically require surgical removal, along with ongoing medical management to reduce the risk of regrowth. Biologic medications targeting the inflammatory pathways involved in polyp formation are now an option for appropriate patients.

CV Surgical Group works with a range of insurance plans for medically necessary sinus treatments and procedures. Coverage varies depending on your specific plan, the procedures recommended, and your individual benefits. Our office team can assist with verifying your coverage and explaining what to expect in terms of out-of-pocket costs before any procedure is scheduled. We encourage patients to contact our office ahead of their appointment with their insurance information so we can assist with any pre-authorization requirements.