Sinus surgery

What to expect

Your nose will feel congested and there is often a feeling of pressure and possibly headaches as if you have a cold or sinus infection for the first week.
You will get some blood and mucus from the nose, particularly while the splints are in place – use a nasal bolster or tape a piece of gauze under the nose with micropore tape if needed rather than constantly wiping the nose.
For pain relief it is generally best to take regular paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen / nurofen, with stronger pain relief used when needed.
You may be provided with antibiotics and / or prednisone to take for the first week depending on the disease and extent of surgery.
Decongestant spray (e.g. Flo Rapid Relief) can be used if necessary to reduce bleeding. If there is excessive bleeding you can use 6-10 sprays if needed.
If you have excessive pain or bleeding, call your surgeon.
Your front teeth &/or top lip may feel unusual - this is normal!
A sore throat is common and should settle once the splints are removed.
Your ears may pop or bubble when you swallow.
There will usually be silicone splints and sometimes sinus dressings inside the nose which are removed after 5-6 days in the clinic – if an appointment isn’t made for you from the hospital, please call my rooms to book in.

Keep the nose as clear as possible by using Flo Sinus Care.
The nasal wash is supposed to flow out of the other nostril, but it may not do this very well while the splints are in place – don’t force it and just let it drip out, the wash will flow through once the splints are out.
The wash should be used for 6 weeks after the surgery – three times a day for the first week, twice a day after the splints are removed, then once a day when there is no more blood or mucus coming out in the wash.

During the first week, gentle exercise such as walking is fine but otherwise take it very easy.
Try and keep your head up as much as possible particularly if you are having bleeding, pain or pressure - sleeping propped up can help.
Avoid very hot showers or baths as this may trigger bleeding.
During the second week you should be feeling a lot better but should still avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise as you may trigger bleeding.
Most people with sedentary jobs will need a week off work, more physical jobs may need 2 weeks off.
Generally avoid blowing the nose while the splints are in place and use the sinus wash instead. Once the splints are out, blowing the nose is fine.