Postoperative care after sinus surgery top 10 tips

Sinus surgery, such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and endoscopic septoplasty , requires careful postoperative care to promote healing, reduce infection risk, and restore sinus function. Here are 10 essential points based on standard ENT guidelines.

## 1. Elevate Your Head

Sleep with your head raised on 2-3 pillows or in a recliner for the first 3-5 days to minimize swelling and bleeding

## 2. Perform Nasal Irrigations after 7 days as instructed

Start saline rinses (e.g., Nasoclear or solspre kit) twice daily from day 7 post-op, using distilled or filtered water and gentle pressure over a sink to clear crusts and mucus [1][3][5].

## 3. Avoid Nose Blowing

Do not blow your nose for 1-2 weeks; gently wipe or dab instead. Sneeze with your mouth open to prevent pressure buildup

## 4. Manage Bleeding and Drainage

Expect bloody drip for 24-72 hours—use a drip pad under your nose. Change it frequently and report heavy bleeding (soaking a pad hourly) immediately .

## 5. Take Prescribed Medications

Follow antibiotics, pain relievers, and nasal steroid sprays and nasal drops as directed. Complete the full antibiotic course to prevent infection

## 6. Limit Physical Activity

Rest for the first week—no heavy lifting (>10lbs), straining, or bending over. Resume light walking after 48 hours

## 7. Control Pain and Discomfort

Use paracetamol or prescribed meds for facial pressure/headache, common in week 1. Apply cool compresses externally [1][7].

## 8. Follow Diet Guidelines

Eat soft, cool foods; avoid hot/spicy items or straws. Stay hydrated and chew on the opposite side if there's a mouth incision

## 9. Watch for Warning Signs

Contact your surgeon for fever >100.4°F, worsening pain, vision changes, severe headache, or clear fluid leak—these may indicate complications

## 10. Attend Follow-Ups

Return at 1 week for debridement/cleaning, then as scheduled (often weekly for 1 month). Full recovery takes 2-4 weeks for most activities