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Sinus Surgery, Septoplasty, and Turbinate Reduction: A Patient’s Journey
Understanding the Nasal Structures
Sinuses: Air-filled spaces in the skull that produce mucus to keep the nasal passages moist and trap dust and germs.
Septum: The wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils.
Turbinates: Small structures inside the nose that warm, humidify, and filter the air you breathe.
Why is surgery needed?
These procedures are often performed together to address conditions such as:
- Chronic Sinus Infections that do not improve with medication.
- Deviated Septum which causes breathing difficulties or nasal blockages.
- Enlarged Turbinates: leading to nasal congestion and restricted airflow.
- Other Conditions, such as nasal polyps, allergies, or snoring.
Common Symptoms of these Conditions
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Facial pain or pressure
- Snoring or sleep disturbances.
Why has surgery been recommended?
Your doctor may recommend surgery if:
- Medications (such as antibiotics, nasal sprays, or antihistamines) have not been effective.
- Breathing difficulties or nasal obstruction affect your daily life.
- Chronic or recurrent sinus infections occur.
- Structural issues, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, require correction.
Before the surgery: Important Instructions
- Fasting: No food for 8 hours before surgery and no water for 2 hours before surgery.
- Medications: Inform your doctor about any blood thinners, aspirin, or anti-inflammatory drugs. You may need to stop them one week before surgery.
- Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid both, as they can delay healing.
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable attire on the day of surgery.
What happens during surgery?
- Sinus Surgery: Removal of blockages, polyps, or diseased tissue using endoscopic techniques.
- Septoplasty: Straightening of a crooked septum to improve airflow.
- Turbinate Reduction: Reducing the size of enlarged turbinates to open nasal passages.
- Procedure Duration: Typically 1 to 3 hours under general anesthesia.
After the Surgery: What to Expect
- You will wake up in a recovery room and be monitored for a few hours.
- Nasal packing or splints may be placed to support healing and control bleeding.
- Most patients can return home the same day.
- Nasal packing is removed the following day.
- Nasal splints are removed after 8 days or as advised by the doctor.
Post-Surgery Symptoms
- Nasal congestion due to swelling, which will gradually improve.
- Mild bleeding (a small amount of blood or discharge is normal).
- Pain or pressure around the nose and sinuses.
- Bruising or swelling around the nose and eyes (fades within a few days).
- Temporary reduction in sense of smell, which improves with healing.
Possible Risks of Surgery
While the procedure is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Bleeding (rare but possible).
- Infection (proper wound care minimizes risk).
- Scarring (minimal and typically internal).
- Temporary changes in smell or taste.
Post-Surgery: Care Instructions
- Rest & Recovery: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks.
- Head Position: Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid Hot Showers: Use lukewarm water for the first few days, avoiding direct water contact with your face.
- Stay Indoors: Avoid hot, humid environments for the first few weeks.
- Sun Protection: Protect your nose from direct sunlight to prevent swelling.
- Medications: Take prescribed painkillers and antibiotics as directed.
Warning Signs – Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Heavy bleeding
- High fever or signs of infection
- Difficulty breathing
Quick Recovery Tips
- Follow all post-operative instructions carefully.
- Use ice packs to minimize swelling and discomfort around the nose and eyes.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
- Be patient—full recovery may take several weeks