What to expect after nasal surgery

Bleeding

It is normal to have some bloody discharge for the first 3-5 days after sinus surgery, especially after you irrigate your sinuses. If steady bleeding occurs after surgery, tilt your head back slightly and breathe through your nose gently (if it's not fully blocked). You may dab your nose with tissue but avoid any nose blowing. If this does not stop the bleeding you may use a decongestant nasal spray (Otrivin, Dristan, Afrin). Several sprays will usually stop any bleeding. If the spray fails to stop steady nasal bleeding then you should call our office or the on call doctor.

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 nasal and sinus pressure and pain for the first several days after surgery. This may feel like a sinus infection or a dull ache in your sinuses. 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.

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.

Nasal congestion and discharge

You will have nasal congestion and discharge for the first few weeks after surgery. Your nasal passage and breathing should return to normal 2-3 weeks after surgery.

What to Avoid After Nasal Surgery

Nose Blowing and Straining: You should avoid straining, heavy lifting (> 20 lbs) and nose blowing for at least 10 days after surgery. Straining or nose blowing soon after surgery may cause bleeding. You can resume 50% of your regular exercise regimen 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.
Steroid Nasal Sprays: If you were taking nasal steroid sprays prior to surgery you should avoid using these for at least 1 week after sinus surgery to allow the lining of the nose and sinuses to heal. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe to restart this medicine.

Postoperative Care Instructions

Nasal Saline Spray Nasal: saline mist spray can be used every 2-3 hours after surgery and can make your nose more comfortable after surgery. These sprays (Ayr, Ocean, Simple Saline) are over-the-counter medications and can be purchased in any pharmacy.
Sinus Irrigations: You will start the sinus irrigations with the sinus rinse kits (NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit) the day after surgery. This must be performed at least once daily. Your doctor will show you how to perform the irrigations. At first they will feel strange if you haven’t done them before. Soon, however, they will become quite soothing as they clean out the debris left behind in your sinuses after surgery. You can expect some bloody discharge with the irrigations for the first few days after surgery. These irrigations are critical for success after sinus surgery!

When to Call After Surgery

Fever after the day of surgery higher than 38.5°C(102°F).
Constant clear, salty watery discharge after the first week of surgery.
Sudden visual changes or eye swelling.
Severe headache or neck stiffness
Severe diarrhea.
Steady, brisk nose bleeding that doesn’t get better after using a nasal decongestant spray.