Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?
FESS is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on the extent of disease. The endoscope is used to inspect each sinus and a specialist instrument removes any polyps or obstructed tissue, widening the sinus openings to allow mucus to drain properly. The procedure leaves no visible scars and is carried out as a day case in the majority of patients. FESS is generally recommended when chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps have not responded to medical treatment such as steroid sprays, nasal rinses or antibiotics.
Based in St John’s Wood (NW8), our consultant ENT surgeons treat patients from across London.
Who is FESS suitable for?
FESS may be recommended if you:
- Have chronic sinusitis (persistent sinus inflammation or infection lasting more than 12 weeks) that has not improved with medication
- Have nasal polyps causing blockage, reduced sense of smell or recurrent infections
- Have a deviated nasal septum or other structural abnormality contributing to sinus problems
- Have had a CT scan confirming sinus disease that warrants surgical intervention
Your ENT consultant will assess your symptoms and imaging before recommending surgery. In most cases a CT scan of the sinuses will be required before FESS can be planned.
Consultants who perform Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
How Much Does Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Cost?
from £3,075*
The cost of private Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) starts from £3,075* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
*The price shown is an estimated guide to the hospital charges associated with your treatment from admission to discharge. Your final cost may vary depending on your individual clinical needs, the procedure performed, any additional treatments required, the type of implant/prosthesis used (where applicable), and the length of stay. This guide price excludes consultation fees, diagnostic tests, and professional fees charged separately by your surgeon, anaesthetist, and any other specialists involved in your care.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Your FESS journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with one of our expert ENT surgeons. We’ll review your medical history, symptoms, and any previous treatments for sinus issues. You may undergo imaging studies such as a CT scan to help with precise surgical planning. Preparation for your procedure is straightforward and tailored to your needs, which may include stopping certain medications and starting a nasal wash regimen. Our team will guide you through every step to ensure you’re comfortable and well-informed ahead of your surgery.
When you arrive at St John & Elizabeth Hospital, our friendly staff will welcome you and guide you through the final pre-surgery steps, including a review of your medical history and a briefing on what to expect. You’ll be settled into our state-of-the-art surgical suite before undergoing general anaesthesia, ensuring you’re asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. Our anaesthetists will monitor you continuously to maintain your comfort and safety.
FESS is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a nasal endoscope to access and correct sinus blockages. Your ENT surgeon will carefully remove obstructions such as polyps or diseased tissue to improve sinus drainage and function. The technique minimises tissue disruption, which helps reduce complications and supports a quicker recovery.
Right after surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where our team will monitor your initial recovery. Pain relief and nausea control are prioritised to keep you comfortable as you wake up from anaesthesia. Our nursing team will also provide you with detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your specific needs.
Most patients recover quickly, often returning to normal activities within a few days. You’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activity and follow our guidance on nasal care and medications. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and assess the outcome of your surgery. These visits are also a chance to address any concerns and ensure your sinuses are functioning properly.
- Keep hydrated. Keeping your body well-hydrated helps keep the mucous thinner and more manageable, facilitating easier sinus drainage.
- Regular nasal irrigation with saline solutions can be incredibly beneficial in keeping your nasal passages clear of irritants and excess mucus, promoting better healing and reducing the risk of infections.
- Avoid smoke and pollutants. Smoke, pollution, and strong odours can irritate nasal passages and exacerbate sinus problems. To support sinus health, it’s important to avoid these irritants as much as possible.
- Attend your follow up appointments. Adhere to your scheduled follow-up appointments with your ENT specialist. These visits are crucial for monitoring your recovery and addressing any complications early.
- Manage your allergies. If you have allergies, keeping them well-managed is essential in preventing sinus issues from worsening. Consult with your healthcare provider about the best allergy management strategies for you.
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), easily accessible for patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6) and across North and Central London.
By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is a 5-minute walk to and from St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
By Bus: Routes 13, 46 and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station. Routes 139 and 189 stop on Abbey Road.
By Car: Finchley Road and Kilburn High Road provide direct routes from NW3 and NW6.