Postoperative care after sinus surgery and septoplasty

Sinus surgery, such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), requires careful postoperative care to promote healing, reduce infection risk, and restore sinus function. Here are 10 essential points based on standard ENT guidelines.

## 1. Elevate Your Head

Sleep with your head raised on 2-3 pillows or in a recliner for the first 3-5 days to minimize swelling and bleeding

## 2. Perform Nasal Irrigations

Start saline rinses (e.g., Nasoclear or saltsray kit) twice daily from day 7 post-op, using distilled or filtered water and gentle pressure over a sink to clear crusts and mucus

## 3. Avoid Nose Blowing

Do not blow your nose for 1-2 weeks; gently wipe or dab instead. Sneeze with your mouth open to prevent pressure buildup

## 4. Manage Bleeding and Drainage

Expect bloody drip for 24-72 hours—use a drip pad under your nose. Change it frequently and report heavy bleeding (soaking a pad hourly) immediately .

## 5. Take Prescribed Medications

Follow antibiotics, pain relievers, and nasal steroid sprays as directed. Complete the full antibiotic course to prevent infection

## 6. Limit Physical Activity

Rest for the first week—no heavy lifting (>10 lbs), straining, or bending over. Resume light walking after 48 hours .

## 7. Control Pain and Discomfort

Use paracetamol or prescribed meds for facial pressure/headache, common in week 1. Apply cool compresses externally

## 8. Follow Diet Guidelines

Eat soft, cool foods; avoid hot/spicy items or straws. Stay hydrated and chew on the opposite side if there's a mouth incision

## 9. Watch for Warning Signs

Contact your surgeon for fever >100.4°F, worsening pain, vision changes, severe headache, or clear fluid leak—these may indicate complications [1][9].

## 10. Attend Follow-Ups

Return at 1 week for debridement/cleaning, then as scheduled (often weekly for 1 month). Full recovery takes 2-4 weeks for most activity