POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
NASAL & SINUS SURGERY
Shopping List:
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Saline nasal spray
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Saline gel
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Afrin nasal spray
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Medications (called in from the office, usually antibiotics and/or pain medications)
Care Instructions:
Day 1 = Day of Surgery
Day 1 - 5
Do not blow your nose from day one (surgery) to day 5. Squirt two puffs of the Saline nasal spray into each nostril, and let it run out. Do NOT blow! Do this 10 times daily during day 1 to day 5.
Day 6
On day 6, you can begin blowing your nose. Squirt two puffs of the Saline nasal spray into each nostril, and blow! Blow one nostril at a time. Do this 10 times daily.
After the procedure here are some things to remember when you get home:
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Resume light activity as soon as you feel comfortable. No heavy activity for 2 weeks. Do not lift anything heavier than 20 lbs. Otherwise, maintain a normal diet & activity level.
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Sneeze with mouth open for 1 week.
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Take the prescribed antibiotics as directed by physician.
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Use Afrin as needed for mild nose bleeding, only.
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Use Saline gel 3-4 times daily, and Saline nasal spray for moisture 10 times daily, apply to nostrils (OTC)
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Soak a rag or gauze in ice water and apply to eyes and bridge of nose as tolerated for 24 hours.
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Raising the head of your bed may help.
Here is what you can expect:
Bleeding/Drainage
There may be mild drainage with mild bleeding. Afrin is only for mild nose bleeding, which is normal. For a severe nose-bleed, apply pressure for 15-20 minutes, ice packs and Afrin. If the bleeding does not stop, call the office IMMEDIATELY
Pain
There may be mild to moderate pain for 3-5 days.
Swelling/Congestion
Post-op swelling may cause congestion for 2-4 weeks.