What to expect after nasal surgery

Bleeding

It is normal to have some bloody discharge for the first 3-5 days after ear surgery. A cotton will have been placed in your outer ear at the time of surgery. It can be replaced as needed. Please do not remove any material that has been placed in your ear canal. if steady bleeding occurs after surgery, contact Dr. Mostachfi's office or return to the hospital.

Eating

Generally, there are no food restrictions after surgery.

Fever

A low-grade fever may be observed the night of the surgery and for a day or two afterward. Contact your physician if the fever is greater than 38.5ºC (102ºF).

Pain

You should expect some ear pain pain for the first few days after surgery. Extra-strength Tylenol is often all that is needed for mild post-operative discomfort. You should avoid aspirin and NSAIDs such as Motrin, Advil, and Aleve. If Tylenol is not sufficient to control the pain, you should use the post-operative pain medication prescribed by your doctor. Ear fullness, hearing loss, ringing, popping and crackling sounds in the ear are all expected after surgery.

Fatigue

You can expect to feel very tired for the first week after surgery. This is normal and most patients plan on taking at least 1 week off of work to recover. Every patient is different and some return to work sooner.

What to Avoid After Ear Surgery

Nose Blowing and Straining: You should avoid straining, heavy lifting (> 20 lbs) and nose blowing for at least 14 days after surgery. Straining or nose blowing soon after surgery may cause bleeding, or dislodge the graft placed in your ear. You can resume light exercise at 1 week after surgery and your normal routine 2 weeks after surgery.
Aspirin and NSAIDs such as Motrin, Advil, and Aleve should be stopped 2 weeks prior to surgery. Aspirin and NSAIDs such may cause bleeding and should be avoided for 2 weeks after surgery.

Postoperative Care Instructions

Do not allow any water to penetrate in your ear until Dr. Mostachfi indicates you can (generally 2-4 weeks).
Do not wash your hair for the first 3 days.
When you wash your hair place a cotton ball covered in vaseline in your ear to prevent water from entering the ear canal.
The stitches used in this surgery (except for the ones behind the ear) are generally dissolvable.

When to Call After Surgery

Fever after the day of surgery higher than 38.5°C(102°F).
Foul smelling, yellow discharge.
Severe dizziness.
Severe headache or neck stiffness
Steady, brisk bleeding.