Although most sinus-related can be treated with medicines, surgery is still sometimes required. Whenever possible, Stanford surgeons use newer, less deforming, and less painful techniques.

The most common type of sinus surgery is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). In FESS, your physician will use small cameras and instruments to work carefully in the nose. S/he will remove obstructing tissues, allowing the sinuses to drain more naturally. This method should decrease the severity, frequency, and duration of infections.

In some cases your Stanford surgeon may suggest surgery that includes "surgical navigation" -- usually with a special type of CT or MRI scanner -- in order to diminish the chance of complications and improve results.