After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

After surgery you’ll be moved to the PACU (post anesthesia care unit) to be closely watched as you wake up from anesthesia. You may feel groggy from the anesthesia. You'll likely have some mild pain. There will be a dressing under your nose to absorb drainage. You may also have packing (absorbent bandage) inside your nose. You can often go home as soon as you’re stable, able to drink fluids, have pain under control, and no longer feel groggy. This is often the same day. In some cases, you may need to stay overnight.

The first week

Healthcare provider examining man’s nose.

Your healthcare provider will schedule an office visit a few days after surgery to check on your progress. At this visit, your provider will remove dried blood and mucus to help you heal. They'll also remove any nasal packing. It’s normal to feel stuffiness and have pinkish or dark red drainage. Change your nasal dressing as needed, and take any prescribed medicines. Also be sure to drink plenty of water. Other guidelines from your provider may include:

Rinsing your nose and sinuses with saltwater
Sneezing with your mouth open
Not blowing your nose
Not doing strenuous exercise, straining, or lifting
Using a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist
Not taking aspirin or ibuprofen
Sleeping with your upper body raised
Not eating hot or spicy foods

The next few weeks

As you’re healing, it’s normal to feel some stuffiness and have nasal crusting. Keeping your nasal passages clean and moist will help speed the healing process and prevent scarring. Also be sure to:

Take medicine as directed
Stay away from irritating substances, such as dust, chalk, air pollution, and harsh chemicals
Use saltwater rinses or a humidifier as directed
Drink plenty of water
Stay away from people who are ill
Stay away from allergic triggers
Talk with your healthcare provider before swimming or air travel