Sinus Surgery in Manhattan Beach: Advanced ENT Treatment

Sinus Surgery (FESS) for Chronic Sinusitis in Manhattan Beach

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), often called endoscopic sinus surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure that opens the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses to help reduce infections, pressure, and congestion. The surgery is performed entirely through the nostrils—no facial incisions—using a small camera and specialized instruments. Dr. Kristin Egan, a dual board-certified ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon, provides comprehensive sinus care in Manhattan Beach and Torrance for patients with chronic or recurrent sinusitis.

Who may be a good candidate

• Chronic rhinosinusitis (symptoms for 12+ weeks) that persists despite medical therapy (saline rinses, nasal steroid sprays, appropriate antibiotics or oral steroids when indicated).

• Recurrent acute sinus infections (for example, 4 or more significant episodes per year).

• Nasal polyps or fungal sinus disease contributing to blockage and infections.

• CT scan or endoscopic exam showing narrowed or blocked sinus openings.

• Significant impact on daily life (missed work/school, frequent antibiotics, sleep disruption).

How the procedure works

During FESS, Dr. Egan uses a thin endoscope to view the sinus openings and gently remove inflamed tissue or polyps while enlarging the natural drainage pathways. Image-guided navigation may be used for complex anatomy. When appropriate, surgery can be combined with procedures such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction to improve airflow. Most patients go home the same day.

Benefits you may notice

• Fewer sinus infections and less facial pressure over time.

• Improved nasal breathing and sinus drainage.

• Better delivery of topical treatments (like saline and nasal steroid sprays).

• Outpatient procedure with no external incisions.

• Potential reduction in the need for repeated oral antibiotics or steroids (individual results vary).

Risks and limitations

• Bleeding, infection, crusting, or scarring inside the nose.

• Temporary congestion, pressure, or changes in smell; smell may not fully recover if damage is longstanding.

• Persistent or recurrent symptoms may occur and ongoing medical therapy is often still needed.

• Rare but serious risks include eye injury or vision changes, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, or anesthesia-related complications.

Your recovery at a glance

1. 1

   Day 0: Most patients return home the same day. Expect nasal congestion and a "stuffy nose" feeling. If packing or splints are used, you may need to breathe through your mouth temporarily.

2. 2

   Days 1–3: Begin frequent saline rinses as directed. Mild oozing is common. Use prescribed pain control and medications.

3. 3

   By 3–7 days: Many patients feel well enough to return to non‑strenuous work or school.

4. 4

   Weeks 1–4: Follow-up visits help clean and guide healing. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and nose blowing until cleared.

5. 5

   1–3 months: Sinus tissues continue to heal and breathing/pressure typically improve progressively.

Post‑operative care essentials

• Perform saline rinses several times daily as directed—this is one of the most important parts of healing.

• Use prescribed nasal sprays, antibiotics, or short courses of oral steroids exactly as instructed.

• Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights to reduce swelling.

• Sneeze with your mouth open and avoid nose blowing for at least a week or as advised.

• Avoid aspirin and certain NSAIDs if advised; discuss all medications with Dr. Egan.

• Call promptly for heavy bleeding, fever, severe headache, vision changes, stiff neck, or clear watery drainage from the nose.

Alternatives and complementary treatments

Before recommending surgery, Dr. Egan maximizes medical therapy, which can include saline irrigation, intranasal corticosteroids, short courses of antibiotics or oral steroids when appropriate, and allergy evaluation or treatment. Some patients with limited disease may be candidates for balloon sinuplasty. The best plan is individualized based on your symptoms, exam findings, and CT imaging.

How to prepare for surgery

• Complete nasal endoscopy and a sinus CT scan to map your anatomy.

• Review all medications and supplements; stop blood thinners only as directed by your prescribing doctor and Dr. Egan.

• Do not smoke or vape; if you do, stop as early as possible to support healing.

• Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home after anesthesia.

• Follow pre‑op fasting instructions and any rinse/spray regimen provided by our team.

Why choose Dr. Kristin Egan

Dr. Egan is dual board‑certified in Otolaryngology (ENT) and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She has cared for patients in Manhattan Beach since 2011 and treats chronic sinusitis with a comprehensive, step‑wise approach that prioritizes safety, comfort, and long‑term control of symptoms. ENT services, including sinus surgery evaluations, are offered at the Manhattan Beach and Torrance offices.

Ready to breathe easier?

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Egan in the office to discuss whether endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is right for you. We proudly serve Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, El Segundo, Palos Verdes, and the surrounding Beach Cities.