Nasal Polyp Surgery in Glendale, CA
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They result from chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa, most commonly associated with conditions such as chronic sinusitis, allergies, asthma, or sensitivity to aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications.
Polyps can vary in size. Small polyps may cause no noticeable symptoms. Larger polyps, or clusters of multiple polyps, can block the nasal passages and interfere significantly with breathing, smell, and sleep quality. They are more common in adults and can affect one or both sides of the nose.
Nasal polyps are a recurring condition for many patients. Even after successful treatment, they can regrow, which is why long-term management is an important part of any treatment plan.
Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
The most common symptoms of nasal polyps include:
- Persistent nasal congestion or blockage on one or both sides
- Reduced or lost sense of smell (anosmia) or taste
- Runny nose or postnasal drip
- Facial pressure or a sensation of fullness around the cheeks and forehead
- Snoring or disrupted sleep caused by nasal obstruction
- Frequent sinus infections
- Mouth breathing, particularly at night
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, particularly persistent nasal blockage or a noticeable loss of smell, a consultation with Dr. Bublik at SCENTAA can help determine whether nasal polyps are the underlying cause.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Nasal Polyps
Steroid Nasal Sprays and Drops
For many patients, treatment begins with corticosteroid nasal sprays or drops. Dr. Bublik may initially prescribe corticosteroid nasal drops or a nasal spray to reduce inflammation of the nasal lining and help shrink existing polyps. These treatments are effective for mild to moderate cases and are typically the first-line management.
Common side effects of topical steroid treatment may include:
- Irritation of the inside of the nose
- Sore throat
- Nosebleeds
If your symptoms improve with nasal steroid drops, Dr. Bublik will usually recommend transitioning to a long-term steroid nasal spray to reduce the likelihood of polyps returning.
Oral Steroid Tablets
If steroid sprays or drops do not produce adequate improvement, a short course of oral steroid tablets may be prescribed. Oral steroids are more powerful than topical treatments and can shrink polyps more quickly, but they are typically used for short periods due to the potential for side effects with prolonged use. Contact Dr. Bublik if your symptoms do not improve after using a steroid spray or drops, as additional treatment options may be appropriate.
Nasal Polyp Surgery in Los Angeles: Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Surgical removal of nasal polyps is recommended when steroid medication does not provide sufficient relief, or when polyps are particularly large or cause significant obstruction. The procedure used to remove nasal polyps is called functional endoscopic sinus surgery, or FESS
What to Expect During the Procedure
FESS can be performed under general anesthesia or as a minimally invasive in-office procedure under local anesthesia, depending on the extent of the polyps and the patient’s preference. Dr. Bublik passes a small endoscopic camera through the nostrils to visualize the inside of the nose and sinuses in detail. Using small precision instruments, he then removes the polyps and any affected sinus tissue with minimal disruption to the surrounding structures.
There are no external incisions and no bruising on the outside of the nose. Because the procedure is performed entirely through the nostrils, recovery is typically faster and more comfortable than traditional open surgical approaches. Most patients are able to breathe more clearly through their nose soon after the procedure.
Recovery After Nasal Polyp Surgery
Most patients return home the same day following FESS. Some mild congestion, discharge, or crusting inside the nose is expected during the first 1 to 2 weeks as the nasal passages heal. Dr. Bublik will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Strenuous activity is typically restricted for one to two weeks following surgery. Most patients are able to return to work and normal daily activities within a few days, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing.
Nasal polyps can recur after surgery, particularly in patients with underlying allergies, asthma, or chronic sinusitis. Dr. Bublik will discuss a long-term management plan with you to help reduce the likelihood of recurrence, which may include ongoing use of a steroid nasal spray and regular monitoring.
Why Choose SCENTAA for Nasal Polyp Treatment in Los Angeles?
Dr. Michael Bublik is a board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) with extensive experience in the surgical and non-surgical management of nasal and sinus conditions. At SCENTAA, we take a comprehensive approach to nasal polyp treatment, beginning with the least invasive option and proceeding to surgery only when clinically indicated and in the patient’s best interest.
Our Los Angeles and Glendale offices are equipped with advanced endoscopic technology, enabling Dr. Bublik to perform highly precise procedures with excellent visibility and minimal recovery time. For patients who are candidates for in-office FESS, this means surgical treatment without a hospital stay or general anesthesia.
If you are experiencing symptoms of nasal polyps and have not found lasting relief through other treatments, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Dr. Bublik will conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment based on your individual anatomy, symptoms, and medical history.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that form on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses due to chronic inflammation. They can range from very small to large enough to fully block one or both nasal passages. They are not dangerous on their own but can significantly affect breathing, smell, and quality of life if left untreated.
What causes nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps develop as a result of long-term inflammation of the nasal lining. They are most commonly associated with chronic sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and aspirin sensitivity. In some cases, there is no clear identifiable cause. They tend to affect adults more than children and can run in families.
What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?
The most common symptoms include persistent nasal congestion, loss or reduced sense of smell, runny nose or postnasal drip, facial pressure, snoring, and frequent sinus infections. Larger polyps can cause near-total nasal blockage, forcing patients to breathe primarily through their mouth. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, a consultation with Dr. Bublik can determine whether polyps are the underlying cause.
How are nasal polyps diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination of the nasal passages using a nasal endoscope, which allows Dr. Bublik to visualize the nasal cavity and identify polyps directly. In some cases, a CT scan of the sinuses may be recommended to assess the extent of the polyps and any involvement of the sinus cavities. This helps guide the selection of the most appropriate treatment plan.
Can nasal polyps go away on their own?
Nasal polyps rarely resolve on their own without treatment. Small polyps may cause minimal symptoms and can sometimes be managed with close monitoring, but most cases benefit from active treatment. Without management, polyps often grow larger over time, and symptoms tend to worsen. Early treatment with steroid nasal sprays is the most common first step.
What is the non-surgical treatment for nasal polyps?
The first line of treatment is usually a corticosteroid nasal spray or drops, which reduces inflammation and can shrink the polyps. If sprays alone are not effective, a short course of oral steroid tablets may be prescribed. While these treatments can provide significant relief, they do not permanently remove polyps, and long-term use of steroid sprays is often required to prevent them from returning.
When is surgery recommended for nasal polyps?
Surgery is typically recommended when steroid medication has not provided adequate relief, when polyps are very large or causing significant airway obstruction, or when polyps are contributing to recurrent sinus infections. Dr. Bublik will discuss whether surgery is appropriate based on the severity of your symptoms, the size and location of the polyps, and your response to previous treatment.
What is FESS, and how does it treat nasal polyps?
FESS, or functional endoscopic sinus surgery, is the standard surgical procedure for removing nasal polyps. Dr. Bublik uses a small endoscopic camera passed through the nostrils to visualize the polyps and sinuses, then removes the polyps using precision microsurgical instruments. There are no external incisions, no bruising on the outside of the nose, and the procedure can be performed under general anesthesia or as a minimally invasive in-office procedure under local anesthesia.
Is nasal polyp surgery painful?
FESS is generally well-tolerated by patients. When performed in the office under local anesthesia, most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Post-operative symptoms such as mild congestion and crusting inside the nose are common in the first one to two weeks as the nasal passages heal, but significant pain is not typical. Dr. Bublik will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support a comfortable recovery.
What is the recovery time after nasal polyp surgery?
Most patients return home the same day and can resume light daily activities within a few days. Strenuous activity is typically restricted for one to two weeks. Some congestion and nasal discharge are expected during the healing period. Dr. Bublik will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure the sinuses are healing well.
Will nasal polyps come back after surgery?
Nasal polyps can recur after surgery, particularly in patients with underlying conditions such as allergies, asthma, or chronic sinusitis that continue to cause inflammation. Long-term management, including ongoing use of a steroid nasal spray, regular monitoring, and treatment of any underlying conditions, is important for reducing the likelihood of recurrence. Dr. Bublik will work with you to develop a personalized maintenance plan following surgery.
Can nasal polyps affect my sense of smell?
Yes. One of the most common and distressing symptoms of nasal polyps is a reduced or complete loss of the sense of smell, known as anosmia. This occurs when the polyps block the area of the nasal cavity where smell receptors are located. In many cases, the sense of smell improves significantly after successful treatment, though recovery varies depending on how long the obstruction was present before treatment.
Are nasal polyps cancerous?
No. Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths and do not become cancerous. However, it is important that any nasal growth be properly evaluated by a specialist, as other types of nasal masses can occasionally be present and may require different management. Dr. Bublik will conduct a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other conditions.
Is nasal polyp surgery covered by insurance?
FESS for nasal polyps is generally covered by health insurance when medically necessary, as it treats a diagnosed medical condition rather than a cosmetic procedure. Coverage varies by insurance plan and individual circumstances. Our team at SCENTAA can assist with the pre-authorization process and help you understand what your plan covers before treatment begins.
Where can I get nasal polyp treatment in Los Angeles?
Dr. Michael Bublik and the team at SCENTAA offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment for nasal polyps at offices in Los Angeles and Glendale. From initial diagnosis and steroid treatment to minimally invasive in-office FESS, we provide the full range of care for this condition. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clearer, easier breathing.
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