Why are nasal polyps prone to recurrence?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on June 24, 2025
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Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms in our nasal cavities, appearing as translucent, lychee-like structures. Primarily, nasal polyps are removed through surgery, but they tend to recur relatively easily after surgery. Several factors contribute to this recurrence: Firstly, daily nasal cavity structure, where surgical intervention does not fully correct structural abnormalities such as a deviated septum, unopened residual ethmoidal bullae, or post-surgical scar proliferation causing impaired drainage, facilitating the recurrence of nasal polyps. Secondly, after surgery, if the patient does not attend regular outpatient follow-ups, fails to routinely clean the surgical site, or neglects post-operative medication, these can lead to the recurrence of nasal polyps. Thirdly, the patient's constitution can play a role, particularly in those with an allergic constitution, which is more prone to the recurrence of nasal polyps.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is nasal polyps prone to recurrence?

Some patients have nasal polyps that tend to recur. Clinically speaking, nasal polyps are a relatively common nasal disease. If the nasal polyps are more extensive, have been present for a longer time, or are characterized by abundant eosinophilic granulocytes, the likelihood of recurrence is relatively higher. If the duration of nasal polyps is relatively short, the lesions are more localized, and there are no accompanying pathological changes or inflammatory reactions, the probability of recurrence is relatively lower. In such cases, it is generally necessary to have regular follow-up examinations after treatment, and then to make a comprehensive assessment based on the doctor's empirical judgment.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Postoperative precautions for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are a common disease in otolaryngology, head, and neck surgery. The primary treatment for nasal polyps is functional endoscopic surgery to remove them. After the surgery, it is important to keep the following in mind: First, it is important to keep the nasal cavity clean. Clean the nasal cavity daily with saline solution and use some medications for treatment. Second, regularly visit the hospital to have the nasal cavity cleaned by the surgeon who performed the operation. Typically, the surgeon will instruct when to return for a follow-up visit, or schedule an appointment. Third, for nasal polyps, surgery is not the end of the treatment. It is generally necessary to continue daily medicinal treatment of the nasal cavity. Immediately after the surgery, it may also be necessary to take anti-inflammatory medications, such as roxithromycin or clarithromycin, for treatment. In summary, treatment and nasal cavity cleaning must continue even after surgery for nasal polyps. (Note: Please use medications under the guidance of a clinical doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal polyps be washed with saline?

Nasal polyps can be considered for saline irrigation, with the main types of saline used being physiological saline or physiological seawater. The main function is to help improve nasal ventilation and reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa. It also has some therapeutic effects for patients with poor sense of smell. However, overall, saline irrigation is still considered an auxiliary treatment method, and it is recommended to consider medication treatment. If the nasal polyps cover a wide range and the clinical symptoms are quite apparent, it could also be accompanied by sinusitis. Under such circumstances, endoscopic surgery might be necessary, which involves the removal of nasal polyps under endoscopy. Depending on the condition of sinusitis, concurrent sinus opening surgery might be required. It is advisable to visit an otolaryngology clinic for a formal diagnostic evaluation to determine the best treatment approach.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Will nasal polyps recur after surgery?

Nasal polyps are a relatively common otolaryngologic condition. In terms of treatment, some patients may consider conservative medication, while others may need to consider surgical treatment. Both medical and surgical treatments can potentially recur. Therefore, after nasal polyp surgery, long-term regular follow-ups are necessary. Generally, it is recommended to have a follow-up once a week, and if the condition recovers well, the follow-up interval can be extended to about once a month. During the follow-up, a nasopharyngoscopy can be performed to check the specific recovery status. Additionally, many patients may need to use corticosteroid nasal sprays. Also, rinsing the nasal cavity with saline is recommended. Generally, with standardized follow-ups and treatment, the chances of recurrence are relatively small. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How is nasal polyp treated?

Nasal polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In terms of treatment, it is first necessary to assess the severity of the condition. It is advisable to undergo a nasal endoscopy and a sinus CT scan. For cases where the nasal polyps are few and the clinical symptoms are mild, conservative medical treatment may be considered, typically involving the use of nasal spray medications, along with saline nasal irrigation. If the nasal polyps are numerous and the clinical symptoms are severe, and if conservative medical treatment is ineffective, nasal endoscopic polypectomy surgery may be considered. This is a minimally invasive surgery that generally yields good results, with less damage and a quicker recovery.