Paranasal Sinus Mucocele NYC

Patients with paranasal sinus mucocele in NYC can undergo treatment with Dr. Edward Shin. Sinus mucoceles are cystic masses that can contribute to sinus-related disorders. Although paranasal cysts are benign (non-cancerous), they can still cause many unpleasant symptoms for patients. Sinus mucoceles can cause blockages in the sinus pathways, which can lead to inflammation, congestion, and sinus infections. Sinus mucocele treatment in NYC focuses on surgically removing the blockage to open up the sinus passages and resolve inflammation. Dr. Edward Shin is a leading sinus specialist with decades of experience treated sinus-related cysts and growths. Dr. Shin can perform paranasal sinus mucocele surgery in NYC to relieve symptoms and prevent future complications.

What Are Paranasal Sinus Mucoceles?

Sinus mucoceles are mucus-filled cysts found in the paranasal sinuses (typically the frontal and ethmoid sinuses). These cysts are non-cancerous, but they can cause many different symptoms for patients. Paranasal mucoceles can interfere with the sinuses’ ability to function properly. Your sinuses produce mucus to moisten and protect the nose from pollutants and irritants; this mucus then drains out of the sinuses and down the throat. Sinus mucoceles block mucus from draining through the sinus pathways, which results in a backup of mucus in the sinus cavity. Fluid buildups in the sinuses can lead to reoccurring sinus infections and inflammation.

Sinus mucoceles expand over time. As they grow in size, they can begin to compress local structures around the sinuses and may even contribute to bone erosion. If left untreated, a sinus mucocele may evolve into an infected mucocele (known as a mucopyocele). As a result, it is recommended that paranasal sinus mucoceles be surgically removed to prevent further complications.

What Causes Paranasal Sinus Mucoceles?

Sinus cysts are typically caused by an obstruction of the sinuses’ outflow tracts. A blockage of the sinus pathways can result in a buildup of mucus which can form a mucocele. In many cases, sinus mucoceles occur due to a prior sinus surgery. Paranasal cysts can also form as a result of post-inflammatory complications following allergies, infections, and chronic inflammatory-conditions.

What Are The Symptoms Of Paranasal Sinus Cysts?

Smaller sinus mucoceles may have no symptoms at all. As they grow in size, however, they can begin to cause noticeable symptoms like headaches, facial tenderness, nasal obstruction, and reoccurring sinus infections. Infections can then lead to congestion, nasal discharge, post-nasal drip, coughing, and fever. Chronic sinus infections can be caused by a variety of different sinus disorders, so it is important to be examined by a sinus specialist to determine the nature of your condition. Typically, paranasal sinus mucoceles can be seen on an MRI or CT scan. Dr. Shin can evaluate you during an in-person consultation to diagnose the underlying cause(s) of your symptoms.

How Are Paranasal Mucoceles Treated?

Surgical removal is typically the ideal treatment option for sinus mucoceles. Non-invasive treatments can help alleviate and manage symptoms caused by reoccurring sinus infections. Dr. Shin may recommend nasal sprays and rinses to help clean out the nasal passages. Decongestants can open up airflow through the nose and relieve congestion. Nasal or oral corticosteroids can reduce inflammation. If your symptoms are caused by a bacterial sinus infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.