Septoplasty and turbinoplasty are done through the nostrils, with no cuts on the face. Most people go home the same day, once they are alert and comfortable.
The first few days
Some nasal blockage, mild oozing of blood-tinged mucus, and feeling tired are all normal at first. Most people have mild pain or discomfort — not severe pain. Unless we tell you otherwise, you can start nose rinses the day after surgery.
Temporary numbness of the upper teeth or the area just behind them can occasionally occur after septoplasty. This usually improves gradually with time.
Your medicine after surgery
You'll usually go home with a few medicines. Your own plan may look a bit different depending on your surgery.
- Nasal saline rinses. This is the most important part of your recovery. Rinsing clears out blood and crusting and helps your nose heal cleanly. You'll usually start this the day after surgery.
- Steroid medication. A steroid nasal spray or steroid added to a nasal rinse may be used for a short period to help reduce swelling during recovery. Most patients do not need oral steroids, but a short course may be prescribed in selected cases if needed.
- Antibiotics. A course may be prescribed after surgery depending on the individual situation.
- Pain medication. A simple pain reliever such as paracetamol/acetaminophen (Panadol) is usually enough for mild to moderate discomfort. A stronger pain medication may also be prescribed if needed.
When can I exercise?
You can walk and do light activity after surgery as tolerated.
Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy exertion for about two weeks.
Warning signs
Contact your surgical team if you develop:
- heavy or persistent bleeding
- rapidly worsening nasal blockage, especially with increasing pain or pressure
- severe or worsening pain that is not controlled with pain medication
- persistent fever or a significant rise in temperature
Possible complications
Complications are uncommon but may include:
- Bleeding that requires additional treatment.
- Infection after surgery.
- A collection of blood within the nasal septum that may need to be drained.
- A septal perforation (a hole in the septum), which may not cause symptoms in some patients.
- Scar tissue or adhesions inside the nose during healing.
- Persistent or recurrent nasal blockage, which may occasionally require additional treatment or revision surgery.
- A change in the external shape of the nose in rare cases.
When can I return to regular activities?
Most patients can return to work and usual activities within one to two weeks. This may vary depending on the type of work and individual recovery.