Nose and Sinus

Conditions ranging from difficulty breathing through oneʼs nose to recurrent infections of the sinuses can markedly affect oneʼs quality of life. It is estimated that 30 million Americans suffer from chronic sinus infections alone.

Most of these issues can be improved by first making the correct diagnosis then providing the patient with treatment options. The use of minimally invasive techniques can accomplish significant improvement and in some cases complete resolution of the symptoms.

Dr. Hesterʼs pursuit of innovation was evident in the late 1990ʼs when he was one of the first surgeons in the country to adopt temperature-controlled radiofrequency, an office procedure to treat nasal obstruction, which continues to be a safe and effective treatment.

This pursuit also led him to co-invent the technology behind the SinuSys Vent-Os system. The Vent-Os system is a low-pressure osmotic sinus dilation system that can provide an alternative to either long-term medications or more invasive procedures and typically only requires topical anesthesia in a doctor’s office, allowing the patient to return to normal activity immediately.

After a thorough evaluation and discussion of your symptoms, Dr.Hester will provide an outline of all treatment options available. Treatments available in our practice include:

Medical Management

It is necessary to have a correct specific diagnosis before placing any patient on chronic medications. Decongestants, antihistamines, nasal sprays, and nasal irrigations all can improve breathing, but only when used correctly. If a patient is using these drugs but not experiencing adequate improvement, a thorough evaluation can identify the reason.

Minimally Invasive Nose and Sinus Treatments

  • Vent-Os Sinus Dilation System: This technology uses low-pressure osmosis to naturally open blocked sinus passages. It commonly requires only topical anesthesia in an office visit, and the patient can return to normal activity immediately
  • Radiofrequency of the turbinates: Radiofrequency can be performed using only local anesthesia in the office to shrink the turbinates-normal structures that can become enlarged and block breathing.

Surgical Solutions

If medications or minimally invasive treatments have not been effective, other options such as those listed below may be indicated:

  • Straightening the septum (septoplasty)
  • Surgical reduction of the turbinates
  • Nasal valve correction
  • Endoscopic sinus surgery

If you suffer from chronic nasal or sinus complaints, determining the exact cause of your symptoms is the first step. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hester and we look forward to showing you what a difference normal breathing can make.