ENT Liu Knowledge Base Head & neck tumours · physician reviewed
Sinonasal Cancer · Treatment

Will surgery for a sinus tumour involve the brain or the eye?

Reviewed: 8 November 2026 By: Xiangpeng Liu, MD Topic: Sinonasal Cancer Answer length: short, citable
Quick answer

Many sinonasal tumours can now be removed entirely through the nose using endoscopic skull-base surgery, without an external incision. Tumours involving the dura, brain, orbit or extensive facial soft tissue may still require a combined craniofacial approach with neurosurgery, ophthalmology and reconstructive flaps.

In detail

Ask specifically about the plan for the skull-base defect (vascular flap reconstruction), risk of cerebrospinal fluid leak, whether the eye can be preserved, and what the expected changes in smell, vision and appearance will be.

What this means in practice: this answer is part of the “Treatment” section of the Sinonasal Cancer topic. If you are comparing treatment options, also read how to compare a second opinion and which records to send.

Other common questions about sinonasal cancer

See all 13 questions in this topic →

Sources for this answer

  1. NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Head and Neck Cancers National Comprehensive Cancer Network · 2025

Written and medically reviewed by Xiangpeng Liu, MD

Associate Chief Physician, ENT & Head/Neck Surgery · Chenzhou First People’s Hospital, Chenzhou, Hunan, China

Editorial policy & reviewer credentials · All sources

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Medical disclaimer: This knowledge base is general information for people researching head and neck tumours, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. It does not replace an examination by a qualified physician. Survival figures are population averages, not predictions for an individual. Treatment and cost estimates for China are illustrative only and must be confirmed in writing after your records have been reviewed. If you have a symptom lasting more than two to three weeks, see a doctor promptly.