Comprehensive Treatment for Nasal Polyps in Metro Atlanta

What Are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are benign (noncancerous), teardrop-shaped growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. While they often start small, polyps can enlarge over time, physically obstructing airflow and preventing proper sinus drainage. This leads to chronic congestion, a diminished sense of smell and recurrent infections.

At the practice of Dr. Pablo Stolovitzky, we specialize in advanced management for polyps. Whether you are seeking your first evaluation or are dealing with recurrent polyps after a previous surgery, our offices in Atlanta (Center Pointe), Decatur and Snellville offer the latest evidence-based solutions.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

Small polyps may go unnoticed, but as they grow or multiply, they typically cause persistent issues that do not respond to over-the-counter cold medicines. Common symptoms include:

• Chronic nasal blockage or a constant “stuffy” feeling.
• Anosmia and Hyposmia: A significant loss or reduction in the sense of smell and taste.
• Persistent drainage: Runny nose or postnasal drip.
• Facial pressure: A feeling of fullness or pain in the forehead and cheeks.
• Sleep disruptions: Snoring or obstructive sleep apnea caused by nasal obstruction.

What Causes Nasal Polyps to Form?

Polyps result from chronic inflammation. While the exact trigger can vary, they are frequently associated with:

• Chronic Sinusitis: Long-term inflammation of the sinus cavities.
• Asthma and Allergies: Conditions that keep the nasal lining in a state of irritation.
• Aspirin Sensitivity: A condition known as Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD), which includes asthma, polyps and aspirin sensitivity.
• Genetic Factors: A family history of inflammatory airway disease.

Diagnostic Evaluation

To determine the size and exact location of the polyps, Dr. Stolovitzky uses high-definition diagnostic tools:

• Nasal Endoscopy: A thin camera provides a direct view of the polyps within the nasal cavity.
• Imaging: A low-dose CT scan helps visualize the extent of polyp growth within the deeper sinus cavities.

Treatment Options for Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps

Treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps depends on disease severity, the extent of sinus involvement, previous treatments, associated medical conditions and individual patient preferences.

Medical Management

Medical treatment typically includes saline irrigation and intranasal corticosteroids. Short courses of oral corticosteroids may be considered in selected patients, but prolonged systemic corticosteroid treatment is generally avoided because of the potential for significant adverse effects.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

For patients whose symptoms remain inadequately controlled, endoscopic sinus surgery may help remove obstructing polyps, improve sinus drainage and facilitate delivery of topical medications. The extent of surgery depends on the distribution and severity of disease and the patient’s clinical circumstances, and may range from removal of smaller polyps (polypectomy) to more comprehensive endoscopic sinus surgery when disease is extensive.

Biologic Therapy

Biologic medications are another important treatment option for appropriately selected patients with severe or recurrent chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. These therapies target specific inflammatory pathways and may reduce symptoms, polyp burden and the need for additional systemic treatment.

Currently available biologics include Dupixent® (dupilumab), Xolair® (omalizumab), Nucala® (mepolizumab) and Tezspire® (tezepelumab), which are given by injection. Dr. Stolovitzky evaluates each patient’s inflammatory profile to determine whether biologic therapy is appropriate.

Endoscopic sinus surgery and biologic therapy can play complementary roles over the course of treatment.

SINUVA® Sinus Implant

SINUVA Product Update: Medtronic has announced the discontinuation of SINUVA sinus implant production. This decision was not related to concerns about the product’s safety, efficacy or quality. SINUVA contributed to the development of office-based treatment options for recurrent nasal polyps. Dr. Stolovitzky participated as a principal investigator in its clinical development. Other treatment options remain available for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

More about the history of SINUVA and the research behind it is available on the SINUVA Sinus Implant page.

The most appropriate approach should be determined through an individualized evaluation, considering the potential benefits, risks, alternatives and long-term management needs.

Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Pablo Stolovitzky served as a National Principal Investigator for the clinical trials that led to the FDA approval of SINUVA®. His involvement in this research reflects his long-standing experience in the office-based treatment of nasal polyps.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nasal Polyps

Do nasal polyps go away on their own?

Rarely. Polyps are the result of chronic inflammation and tend to persist or enlarge without treatment. Intranasal corticosteroids can shrink them, and larger or recurrent polyps may require surgery or biologic therapy.

Will nasal polyps come back after surgery?

Recurrence is common because surgery removes the polyps but not the underlying inflammation. Continued topical steroid therapy after surgery, and in selected patients biologic medication, can help reduce the chance of recurrence.

Can treatment restore my sense of smell?

Many patients notice improvement in smell as polyps shrink, particularly with biologic therapy or after surgery. The degree of recovery varies and depends on how long and how severely the sense of smell has been affected.

Are nasal polyps cancerous?

Nasal polyps are benign. However, a growth on only one side of the nose, bleeding or an unusual appearance should be evaluated to exclude other conditions, including sinus tumors.

Schedule a Consultation with a Rhinology Expert

Don’t let nasal polyps interfere with your sleep, taste or breathing. Dr. Stolovitzky is a nationally recognized specialist in the treatment of complex inflammatory sinus disease.