What are the risks and recovery expectations after FESS?

Common risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and temporary numbness of the teeth or palate. Serious complications, such as cerebrospinal fluid leak or vision changes, are rare (less than 1%) when performed by experienced surgeons. Recovery involves 2–4 weeks of nasal saline rinses, avoiding strenuous activity, and follow-up visits for endoscopic cleaning. Most patients return to work within 1–2 weeks, but full healing of the sinus mucosa may take several months. Pain is typically mild and managed with over-the-counter medication.