Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Mumbai: Procedure, Benefits and Cost Factors

Chronic sinus problems can cause persistent nasal blockage, facial pressure, headaches, reduced sense of smell, and difficulty breathing through the nose. When symptoms continue despite appropriate medical treatment, an ENT specialist may recommend surgery to improve sinus drainage and airflow. Endoscopic sinus surgery in Mumbai is a minimally invasive surgical approach that uses a thin endoscope and specialised instruments to treat selected conditions affecting the nose and sinuses.

Dr. Shama Kovale, Senior Consultant ENT specialist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, provides evaluation and management for a range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. Understanding when sinus surgery may be needed, how the procedure is performed, its potential benefits, and the factors affecting its cost can help patients prepare for an informed consultation.

What Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery?

Endoscopic sinus surgery, commonly called functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) when performed for chronic sinus disease, is a procedure used to improve ventilation and drainage from the paranasal sinuses. These air-filled spaces around the nose can become inflamed or obstructed because of chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or structural abnormalities.

During the procedure, the surgeon passes a narrow endoscope with a light and camera through the nostrils. This provides a magnified view of the nasal passages and sinus openings. Specialised instruments may then be used to remove obstructing tissue, polyps, or small amounts of bone when necessary to restore drainage.

The procedure is generally performed through the nostrils, so external facial incisions are usually not required. The exact surgical approach depends on the diagnosis, anatomy, extent of disease, and the patient’s overall health.

When Is Sinus Surgery Recommended?

Sinus surgery is not necessary for every person with sinus symptoms. Many cases of acute sinusitis improve with appropriate medical care. Surgery may be considered when symptoms persist or recur despite suitable treatment, or when examination and imaging identify a problem that is unlikely to improve with medicines alone.

Common reasons for considering surgery include:

• Chronic sinusitis: Long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses that continues despite appropriate medical management.
• Nasal polyps: Non-cancerous growths that may obstruct airflow and sinus drainage.
• Recurrent sinus infections: Repeated episodes that significantly affect daily life and warrant further assessment.
• Blocked sinus openings: Structural or inflammatory changes that prevent normal drainage.
• Selected fungal sinus conditions: Certain fungal diseases may require surgical treatment alongside condition-specific medical care.
• Other diagnosed sinus abnormalities: Surgery may be appropriate for selected lesions or complications, depending on specialist assessment.

A detailed clinical examination is essential before deciding on surgery. Nasal endoscopy and a CT scan of the sinuses may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and plan the procedure.

Endoscopic sinus surgery in Mumbai: Benefits and Expected Outcomes

The suitability and benefits of Endoscopic sinus surgery in Mumbai depend on the underlying condition, severity of symptoms, and response to previous treatment.

1. Improved Sinus Drainage

The procedure aims to open obstructed sinus pathways so mucus can drain more effectively. This may help reduce symptoms associated with chronic sinus inflammation.

2. Better Nasal Breathing

When inflammation, polyps, or other obstructions contribute to nasal blockage, surgery may improve airflow through the nose. Additional treatment may be required if allergies or other conditions continue to cause swelling.

3. Relief from Selected Sinus Symptoms

Some patients experience improvement in facial pressure, nasal discharge, congestion, and sense of smell. Results vary, and surgery does not guarantee that every symptom will disappear.

4. Access for Ongoing Treatment

Opening the sinus pathways can make it easier for saline rinses and prescribed topical treatments to reach affected areas. Long-term medical management may still be necessary, particularly in chronic inflammatory conditions.

5. No Routine External Facial Incisions

Because the procedure is generally performed through the nostrils, it usually avoids visible external incisions. The extent of surgery and recovery nevertheless depend on the specific procedure performed.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Sinus Surgery?

The cost of endoscopic sinus surgery can vary significantly between hospitals and patients. There is no single price that applies to every case.

Important factors include:

• Complexity of the condition: Limited surgery for localised disease may differ in cost from extensive surgery involving multiple sinuses.
• Hospital facilities: The hospital’s infrastructure, operating theatre, equipment, and postoperative care influence the overall bill.
• Surgeon’s fees: Professional fees vary according to the procedure and clinical circumstances.
• Anaesthesia: The type of anaesthesia and associated services contribute to the total cost.
• Diagnostic investigations: Consultation fees, nasal endoscopy, CT scans, and relevant laboratory tests may be billed separately.
• Length of stay: Day-care management or an overnight admission may be recommended depending on the procedure and the patient’s condition.
• Additional procedures: Septoplasty or other nasal procedures may affect the total cost when clinically indicated.

Patients should request an itemised estimate that explains what is included, such as surgeon and anaesthesia fees, hospital charges, medicines, investigations, and follow-up visits. Insurance coverage depends on the policy, medical indication, and insurer’s approval process.

How Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Performed?

The surgical plan is developed after reviewing symptoms, examination findings, and imaging.

Step 1: Preoperative assessment

The ENT surgeon reviews medical history, current medications, allergies, previous treatments, and relevant health conditions. Nasal endoscopy and CT imaging help determine the extent of disease. Patients should disclose blood-thinning medicines and other prescribed treatments.

Step 2: Anaesthesia

The procedure is commonly performed under general anaesthesia, although the plan depends on the specific case and clinical setting.

Step 3: Endoscopic procedure

The surgeon inserts the endoscope through the nostril and uses specialised instruments to remove obstructing tissue or polyps and open affected sinus pathways as required. The extent of surgery is tailored to the disease.

Step 4: Recovery and observation

After surgery, the healthcare team monitors the patient and provides instructions regarding bleeding, pain control, nasal care, and follow-up. Discharge timing depends on recovery and the complexity of the procedure.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery varies depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Nasal congestion, mild discomfort, tiredness, and small amounts of blood-stained discharge may occur initially.

Following the surgeon’s instructions can support recovery:

• Use saline nasal rinses when prescribed or recommended.
• Take medicines according to the discharge instructions.
• Avoid forceful nose-blowing until the surgeon says it is safe.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for the period advised.
• Attend follow-up appointments for examination and any required nasal cleaning.
• Discuss when to resume work, travel, and normal activities.

Heavy or persistent bleeding, vision changes, swelling around the eyes, severe headache, or clear watery drainage from the nose should be reported urgently. Follow-up is important because some patients need continued nasal sprays or other medical treatment to reduce the risk of recurrent inflammation.

Why Consult Dr. Shama Kovale?

Dr. Shama Kovale is a Senior Consultant ENT specialist associated with Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. Her clinical work includes ENT care, laryngology, voice and swallowing disorders, cochlear implants, and endoscopic ENT procedures. She has more than 23 years of experience in the field.

Patients looking for an ENT Specialist in Mumbai should consider the clinician’s relevant experience, diagnostic approach, hospital facilities, and ability to explain treatment alternatives. A consultation can help determine whether symptoms are due to chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, allergies, a structural problem, or another condition.

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital provides a hospital-based setting for specialist assessment, diagnostic investigations, surgical care, and postoperative follow-up. Dr. Kovale can assess ENT concerns and advise whether medical treatment, further testing, or surgical referral is appropriate.

People searching for an ENT Doctor in Mumbai should discuss the expected benefits, potential complications, recovery period, and total estimated cost before deciding on surgery.

Book a Consultation with Dr. Shama Kovale

If chronic nasal blockage, recurrent sinus infections, or facial pressure continues despite medical treatment, consider arranging an ENT evaluation. Dr. Shama Kovale can assess your symptoms and discuss appropriate next steps based on your clinical findings.

Contact details

+91 91528 50769
drshamakovaleent@gmail.com

Get Directions to the Clinic – Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is endoscopic sinus surgery recommended?

Endoscopic sinus surgery may be recommended for chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, recurrent sinus problems, or blocked sinus drainage pathways when appropriate medical treatment has not provided sufficient relief. An ENT specialist determines whether surgery is suitable after examination and, when needed, imaging.

2. What is the cost of Endoscopic sinus surgery in Mumbai?

The cost depends on the complexity of the condition, the extent of surgery, hospital facilities, anaesthesia, diagnostic tests, and postoperative care. Request an itemised estimate from the hospital to understand the expected total expenses.

3. How long does recovery from endoscopic sinus surgery take?

Many patients resume light daily activities within several days to around one or two weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and individual recovery. Complete healing may take longer, and follow-up visits and prescribed nasal care are important.

4. Who should I consult for sinus surgery in Mumbai?

Consult an experienced ENT specialist who can assess your symptoms, review nasal endoscopy or CT findings, and explain appropriate treatment options. Dr. Shama Kovale at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital can evaluate ENT concerns and advise on suitable next steps.