How Long Does Congestion Last After Septoplasty?
What Is Septal Surgery or Septoplasty?
The septum is a thin plate of cartilage and bone situated in the midline inside the nose that divides the nose into right and left halves. The front of it can be felt at the bottom of the tip of the nose. It is about 7-8 cms long in adults.
In some people the nasal septum is bent or deviated into one or both sides of the nose. This is commonly due to a previous nasal injury, although it is possible for it to occur even without an injury as the septum can naturally grow that way. If the angulated septum is sufficiently severe, it may cause difficulty in breathing through the nose. This can be corrected by means of an operation called a septoplasty, which aims to straighten the septum.
Septoplasty Post-Op
As expected, after septoplasty your surgeon will suggest that you get plenty of rest for the remainder of the day. You’ll need somebody to drive you home, and you should try not to touch or rub your nose. Your doctor will recommend that you avoid blowing your nose over the next few weeks. This will help prevent further irritation while it heals.
You can apply small ice packs to your nose and eyes to help with swelling, and if your pain is severe your doctor may recommend Tylenol or some light narcotics for a few days.
Most people fully recover from septoplasty surgery within 3-4 weeks, but you can return to your normal routine within 1 week including exercise. Patients usually return to work in 4-5 days.
Nasal Congestion After Surgery
A stuffy nose is normal following sinus/nasal surgery due to swelling of the tissues. This may last up to one (1) week after surgery. Nasal congestion may be alleviated by humidification of the nose with a cool mist vaporizer or humidifier. Your physician may insert a special packing in the nose after surgery. This will add to your general stuffiness. The packing will be removed two to three (2-3) days after surgery. During your surgery, your physician may have placed intranasal splints, which will contribute to your “stuffiness”. If you sneeze or cough, do so with your mouth open.
After Surgery Care
Salt-water/Saline irrigation is highly recommended to decrease swelling and inflammation that may occur post operatively. The use of saline irrigation eight to ten (8-10) times per day in each nostril can be quite helpful to moisturize the nose and clear debris. Also, if you can take decongestants, these will help. They can be either in a spray (Afrin) or pill form (Sudafed). Afrin should be used for no more than three (3) days after surgery. Rest with your head elevated, to keep swelling to a minimum.
About Iranian Surgery
Iranian surgery is an online medical tourism platform where you can find the best ENT surgeons in Iran. The price of Septoplasty in Iran can vary according to each individual’s case and will be determined by an in-person assessment with the doctor.
For more information about the cost of Septoplasty in Iran and to schedule an appointment in advance, you can contact Iranian Surgery consultants via WhatsApp number 0098 901 929 0946. This service is completely free.
Source:
http://www.otodocs.com/postoperative-instructions-for-sinus-surgeryseptoplastyturbinoplasty.html