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What Is Nasal Polypectomy?

Nasal polypectomy is a procedure to remove nasal polyps, which are soft growths arising from inflamed tissue inside the nose or sinuses. Removing them can improve a blocked nose and help restore airflow. The operation removes existing polyps but does not eliminate the inflammation that allowed them to form.

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What Is Nasal Polypectomy?

Nasal polypectomy is a procedure to remove nasal polyps, which are soft growths arising from inflamed tissue inside the nose or sinuses. Removing them can improve a blocked nose and help restore airflow. The operation removes existing polyps but does not eliminate the inflammation that allowed them to form.

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When Is Nasal Polypectomy Considered?

A clinician may consider surgery when polyps cause troublesome blockage or other symptoms despite treatment with nasal medications. Examination and, in some cases, imaging show where the polyps are located. The treatment plan depends on the extent of the growths and any accompanying sinus disease.

How Are Nasal Polyps Removed?

The surgeon works through the nostrils using instruments to identify and remove the polyps. An endoscope may provide a view inside the nose and sinuses. Sinus surgery may be performed during the same operation if blocked sinus drainage also needs treatment.

What Happens During Recovery?

Temporary congestion, mild bleeding, and blood-stained drainage can occur after surgery. The care team may recommend saline rinses or prescribed nasal medication and provide instructions about nose blowing and strenuous activity. Follow-up visits allow the clinician to check healing.

What Are the Risks and Limitations?

Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring inside the nose, and changes in the sense of smell. Procedures extending into the sinuses have additional uncommon risks involving nearby structures. Nasal polyps can return, so continued medical treatment may be recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nasal Polypectomy

Can nasal polyps grow back after removal?

Yes. Surgery removes the existing polyps but does not necessarily resolve the underlying inflammation. A clinician may recommend ongoing nasal treatment to reduce recurrence.

Will the operation leave a visible scar?

Nasal polypectomy is generally performed through the nostrils. It usually does not require an incision on the outside of the nose.

Will my sense of smell improve?

Smell may improve if polyps were blocking airflow to the smell receptors. Improvement is not guaranteed, particularly when inflammation also affects smell.

Is polypectomy the same as sinus surgery?

No. Polypectomy removes polyps, while sinus surgery opens or treats sinus passages. Both may be performed together when appropriate.

References

Endoscopic sinus surgery for the excision of nasal polyps: A systematic review of safety and effectiveness. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17063747/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

In-office endoscopic nasal polypectomy: prospective analysis of patient tolerability and efficacy. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7359762/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Nasal Polypectomy. Penn Medicine. https://www.pennmedicine.org/treatments/nasal-polypectomy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Nasal polyps - Diagnosis and treatment. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-polyps/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351894. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Nasal polyps - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20351888. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.