Regain Your Sense of Smell and Free Breathing: Nasal Polyp Surgery
Get rid of benign growths (polyps) that completely block your nose and impair your sense of smell and taste with modern endoscopic surgery. With this delicate cleaning procedure, performed without any external incisions, you can once again enjoy the taste of food, the aroma of coffee, and the fresh breath of life.
What are nasal polyps and how do they affect life?
Nasal polyps are benign tissues that form when the mucous membrane lining the nasal and sinus cavities swells and hangs down in a "grape cluster" shape due to allergies, asthma, or chronic infections. They are definitely not cancer (tumors), but over time they can grow and completely block the nasal airways. Because airflow is cut off, olfactory particles cannot reach the olfactory nerves; this leads to the complete loss of the sense of smell and taste (anosmia). Nasal polyp surgery is the process of removing these polyps from their root and reopening the sinus passages using camera-equipped (endoscopic) systems and special cleaning devices.
- Those who experience constant and severe congestion in both nostrils
- People who cannot taste food or smell their surroundings (loss of smell)
- Those who experience constant pain in their face, around their eyes, and on their forehead due to the pressure caused by polyps.
- Those who experience severe snoring, mouth breathing, and sleep apnea at night.
- Those with stubborn polyps that do not shrink despite medication and corticosteroid nasal sprays.
It's not enough to simply remove polyps from the surface; they need to be removed from the root.
The most common complaint among patients with nasal polyps is, "I had surgery before, but my polyps grew back months later." At Dr. Nurten Küçük, my surgical approach isn't just to superficially remove polyps from the main nasal cavity; it involves using high-resolution cameras to reach the deepest chambers of the sinuses and cleaning these tissues at the root (at the cellular level) with specialized technological devices called 'microdebriders'. Through meticulous endoscopic cleaning and subsequent planned regular medical (allergy) follow-up, we aim to permanently eliminate polyps from your life.
Scarless Endoscopic Surgery
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and entirely through the nostrils (closed technique). There will be absolutely no incisions, stitches, bruising, or changes in the shape of your face.
Return to the Sense of Smell and Taste
Since the physical barrier created by the polyps that blocked the olfactory area is removed, your sense of smell and taste will return to their former healthy state after the recovery period following surgery (as the swelling subsides).
Painless Healing Process
Because the polyp tissue does not contain nerve endings and no bone is broken, postoperative pain is minimal. Traditional gauze bandages are not used; you can be easily discharged the next day and return to your normal life within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can nasal polyps turn into cancer (malignant tumors)?
No. Nasal polyps are reactive growths caused by chronic inflammation or allergies; they are absolutely not cancerous (malignant) and have no risk of turning into cancer. They only grow, causing physical obstruction and a decrease in quality of life. However, every removed tissue sample is routinely sent to pathology as a precautionary measure.
Can polyps grow back after surgery?
Polyp formation is often rooted in chronic diseases such as allergies or asthma. If surgical cleaning is performed too superficially and the patient does not use the prescribed postoperative sprays/medications, there is a risk of recurrence. However, with the thorough endoscopic cleaning and meticulous postoperative follow-up program we apply in our clinic, this risk is minimized.
Will my sense of smell return immediately after surgery?
Because of the natural swelling and scabs that form inside the nose immediately after surgery, your sense of smell may not fully return for the first few days. As the inside of your nose heals and the swelling subsides (usually within 2-3 weeks), your sense of smell and taste will return perfectly.
I have asthma; are there any contraindications to having polyp surgery?
On the contrary, it has a very significant benefit. Asthma and nasal polyps are often linked (Samter Syndrome, etc.). When nasal polyps are removed and the upper respiratory tract is relieved, the quality of air reaching the lungs improves, and patients experience a significant reduction and relief from asthma attacks and shortness of breath.
Take the first step towards an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.
For an initial consultation, examination, and personalized treatment plan, please contact us immediately.