Nasal Surgery: Your Recovery

You’ve just had nasal surgery. During the first weeks after surgery, be sure to follow the advice of your doctor. The tips on this sheet can help speed your recovery.

Tips for healing

  • Don’t take medicines containing aspirin or ibuprofen.

  • Don't bump your nose or touch the splint or packing.

  • Don't bend or lift.

  • Sneeze or cough with your mouth open to reduce pressure inside your nose.

  • Keep from blowing your nose until you’re told it’s OK to do so.

  • Keep eyeglasses from resting on your nose by taping them above the nose.

  • Protect your nose from the sun.

  • After packing is removed, start saltwater rinses if prescribed.

  • Keep follow-up appointments with your doctor.

Follow-up visits

Your doctor will most likely want to see you within a week to check your healing. Any packing, splint, or dressings will probably be removed at that time. You may feel slight discomfort and bleed a little when this is done.

Assessing the results

During later follow-up visits, your doctor will assess your healing and the results of your surgery. Talk with your doctor about any problems or concerns you may have.

When to call the doctor

Call the doctor if you notice any of the following:

  • Sudden increase in pain, swelling, or bruising

  • Fever

  • Heavy bleeding

  • Yellow or greenish drainage from the nose

  • Unrelieved headache

  • Decreased or double vision

  • Stiff neck or very tired feeling

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