Nasal and sinus surgery — septoplasty, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), and turbinate reduction — has a gradual and longer recovery period. Most people feel blocked up for the first one to two weeks and notice continued improvement over the following months. The notes below cover what’s normal and what helps.
What to expect
Nasal obstruction, congestion, headache, mild facial pressure and feeling drained or lethargic are all expected in the first week or two. There is no nasal packing in most cases. A small amount of blood-stained discharge for several days is normal. The nose may feel worse before it feels better — improvement is usually obvious by week three to four and continues for several months.
Pain management
Regular paracetamol (Panadol) is usually sufficient. Panadeine or short-acting opioid analgesia may be prescribed for the first few days. Do not take ibuprofen, Nurofen, aspirin or other anti-inflammatories in the first two weeks — they increase the risk of bleeding.
Saline rinses
Saline nasal douches are central to recovery after nasal and sinus surgery. Start them on the day after surgery (or as directed) and use them at least twice a day for the first six weeks. They clear crusting, soothe the lining and shorten the congested phase considerably. We’ll show you how to use them before you go home.
Activity and lifestyle
- No strenuous exercise, heavy lifting or bending forward for two weeks
- No swimming for two weeks
- No flying for three weeks — pressure changes can cause bleeding
- Avoid blowing the nose hard for the first week; gentle sniffing back is fine
- Sleep with your head elevated on an extra pillow for the first week
- No driving for 24 hours after the anaesthetic, and not at all while taking strong pain relief medications
Return to work
Plan for about one week off work; longer if your job involves heavy lifting, exercise or dusty environments.
What to watch for — contact us if the following occurs:
- Heavy bleeding from the nose that doesn’t settle with gentle pressure and ice on the bridge of the nose
- Severe headache, visual changes, or stiff neck
- Worsening swelling around the eyes, or swelling/pain that’s getting worse rather than better after the first few days
- Fever and feeling unwell
For non-urgent concerns during business hours, call the practice. For urgent after-hours issues — especially heavy bleeding or anything affecting vision — go directly to the nearest emergency department.
