When Is Surgery the Right Option for Sinus Problems?

When Is Surgery the Right Option for Sinus Problems?

Sinus pressure, nasal congestion, and repeated infections can make daily life difficult. For many people in Mesa, Gilbert, and Tempe, these issues improve with medications, nasal rinses, or allergy care. But if your sinus problems keep coming back—or last for months—it might be time to ask whether sinus surgery is an option.

At Trinity ENT, our goal is to help patients understand when sinus surgery may be beneficial, what treatment options exist, and how to make an informed decision about their care.

When Sinus Problems Need More Than Medication

Most sinus infections resolve with time and medical therapy. However, surgery may be considered if symptoms persist despite treatment. You may benefit from an ENT consultation if you experience:

• Chronic sinusitis: Symptoms lasting 12 weeks or longer
  
  
• Frequent sinus infections: Three or more per year
  
  
• Nasal obstruction: Persistent congestion or blockage
  
  
• Structural issues: Such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps
  
  
• Reduced quality of life: Ongoing pressure, fatigue, or poor sleep
  
  

If these issues continue, your ENT can determine whether surgical intervention may help improve breathing and relieve chronic sinus discomfort.

Common Sinus Procedures in Mesa, Gilbert, and Tempe

Modern sinus procedures are far less invasive than traditional surgeries and often allow quicker recovery. Depending on your condition, your ENT may discuss one or more of the following options:

Balloon Sinuplasty

A minimally invasive, in-office procedure that uses a small balloon to open blocked sinus passages and restore natural drainage. Most patients return to regular activities within a few days.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Performed using a thin camera (endoscope), this procedure allows your ENT to remove polyps, clear obstructions, or widen sinus openings. It’s typically recommended for patients with advanced or recurrent sinus disease.

Septoplasty

Corrects a deviated septum—the cartilage and bone dividing the nasal passages—to improve airflow and reduce chronic congestion.

Turbinate Reduction

Enlarged nasal turbinates can cause ongoing stuffiness. This procedure carefully reduces their size while preserving their normal function.

What to Expect Before Considering Surgery

Before recommending any procedure, ENTs typically start with conservative approaches, which may include:

• Prescription medications such as corticosteroid sprays or antibiotics
  
  
• Saline rinses or irrigations
  
  
• Allergy testing and immunotherapy
  
  
• Lifestyle adjustments like using humidifiers or minimizing dust exposure
  
  

If symptoms continue despite these measures, imaging tests such as a CT scan can help determine whether surgery could be beneficial.

Choosing the Right ENT for Sinus Surgery in the East Valley

Deciding on surgery is a personal and medical decision. At Trinity ENT, our providers take a patient-centered approach—evaluating each case individually to recommend the most appropriate options. Whether you’re in Mesa, Gilbert, or Tempe, our team offers diagnostic evaluations and both medical and minimally invasive sinus treatments tailored to your needs.

Take the Next Step Toward Sinus Relief

Persistent congestion, sinus pressure, and frequent infections don’t have to define your daily life. If medications and home treatments haven’t provided enough relief, it may be time to explore whether a sinus procedure in Mesa, Gilbert, or Tempe could help.

🌿 Schedule a consultation with Trinity ENT to learn more about sinus surgery options and find out which approach may be right for you.