Chronic Rhinosinusitis
in London
Award-winning care with Mr Florian Bast, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon. Winner of Best Surgical Result at the Aesthetic Awards 2025.
Award-winning care with Mr Florian Bast, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon. Winner of Best Surgical Result at the Aesthetic Awards 2025.
Mr Florian Bast - Rhinologist and Rhinoplasty Surgeon London
Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Chronic Rhinosinusitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the nose and sinuses that continues for 12 weeks or more, even after trying standard treatments.
It is a common condition seen in ENT practice and can affect your breathing, sleep, energy levels, and overall comfort.
Many people ask whether sinusitis is the same as rhinosinusitis. The answer is yes, the term rhinosinusitis is simply more accurate, as it describes inflammation of both the nose (rhino) and the sinuses.
Chronic Rhinosinusitis is not contagious. It is usually caused by ongoing inflammation, allergies, polyps, or structural problems rather than infection.
Guide to aesthetic vs functional rhinoplasty procedure with specialist
Mr Florian Bast.
MR FLORIAN BAST EXPLAINS
What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Rhinosinusitis?
Symptoms vary from person to person, but often include:
Nasal congestion or blockage that makes it hard to breathe through the nose
Thick nasal discharge, often yellow or green, or mucus dripping down the throat
Facial pain or pressure, especially around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, or nose
Reduced sense of smell or taste
Cough, often worse at night
Fatigue and low energy
Ear pressure or a feeling of fullness
Sore throat from postnasal drip
Bad breath caused by long-standing nasal discharge
These symptoms can last for many months. For many people, it continues for at least 12 weeks, and sometimes much longer, without the right treatment.
What Causes Chronic Rhinosinusitis?
There is no single cause, but common rhinosinusitis causes include:
Nasal polyps
A deviated septum
Sensitivity to irritants
Asthma
Immune-related conditions
Ongoing inflammation
Understanding the cause is essential, as this guides the best treatment approach.
MR FLORIAN BAST EXPLAINS
How Can Chronic Rhinosinusitis Be Treated?
Septal perforation closure is performed in a hospital setting, usually under general anaesthetic.
There are several techniques used, depending on the size and location of the perforation. These may include:
Using nearby nasal tissue to cover the hole
Placing graft material to close the perforation
Mr Bast carefully selects the most appropriate approach for each patient. The procedure is technically complex and requires specialist experience in nasal surgery. Most patients return home the same day or
after a short stay.
How Can Chronic Rhinosinusitis Be Treated?
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, improve sinus drainage, and address the factors that are triggering symptoms.
Depending on the cause, symptoms, and severity, treatment options may include:
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Medicines may be used to treat inflammation, infection, congestion, and allergy-related symptoms. These may include steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines, saline washes, or short courses of other medications when appropriate.
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Many patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis also suffer from allergies.
Treatment may include:
Allergy testing: to identify which allergens are triggering symptoms
Immunotherapy: such as allergy injections or sublingual tablets to reduce the body’s reaction over time
This approach can significantly reduce inflammation and improve long-term results.
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Simple daily habits can ease symptoms:
Using a humidifier to keep the nasal passages moist
Staying well-hydrated to thin mucus
Avoiding irritants such as smoke, pollution, and known allergens
These steps support overall sinus health and help prevent flare-ups.
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In some cases, Chronic Rhinosinusitis is linked to underlying immune conditions.
If an immune issue is identified, targeted treatments may be recommended to reduce inflammation and improve the body’s ability to manage sinus disease.
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If symptoms persist despite medication, procedures may be considered to improve airflow and drainage:
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
A minimally invasive operation that uses a small camera to remove blockages and improve sinus ventilation.
Balloon Sinuplasty
A small balloon is placed inside the sinus passage and gently inflated to widen the opening and help mucus drain more easily.
Polypectomy
Removal of nasal polyps that may be contributing to blockage, pressure, or inflammation.
These procedures are tailored to the individual and are performed only when clearly beneficial.
MR FLORIAN BAST EXPLAINS
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Chronic rhinosinusitis is not contagious. It is usually caused by ongoing inflammation, allergies, nasal polyps, or structural issues inside the nose rather than an active infection that can be passed on to others.
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Chronic rhinosinusitis lasts for 12 weeks or longer. In some people, symptoms can continue for months or even years if the underlying cause is not treated properly. With the right management, symptoms can be significantly reduced.
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There is no single cure, but chronic rhinosinusitis can be effectively controlled with a personalised treatment plan. This usually involves identifying the cause, reducing inflammation, and improving sinus drainage. Many patients experience long-term relief with the right combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and, where appropriate, minimally invasive procedures.
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Yes. The term rhinosinusitis is more accurate because inflammation almost always affects both the nose and the sinuses at the same time.
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You should consider seeing an ENT specialist if your symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, keep returning, or do not improve with standard treatments such as sprays or medication.
Why Choose Mr Florian Bast
Mr Florian Bast is a Consultant Rhinologist, ENT, and Facial Plastic Surgeon with advanced expertise in complex nasal surgery. His detailed understanding of nasal anatomy and airflow allows him to manage chronic rhinosinusitis with precision and care.
All treatment is consultant-led, with clear communication and close follow-up throughout recovery.
Real Patient Results
Mr Florian Bast offers Rhinoplasty, ENT and facial plastic surgery at a variety of hospitals in London, England. These include: Rhinology at Cromwell Hospital, London; Rhinology at Cadogan Clinic, London; Balloon sinus dilation at The Lister Hospital, London; Endoscopic balloon dilation at Weymouth Street Hospital, London; Rhinology at Guys Hospital and St Thomas’ Hospital, London; ENT services at 25 & 9 Harley Street, London; Rhinology at Sydney Street Diagnostics Centre, London.