Sinus problems can make life miserable. Whether you have chronic sinusitis or polyps, surgery is often recommended if you have ongoing problems that fail to respond to conservative treatment.
Surgery can remove abnormal tissue from the sinuses, drain the sinus passages, and open the passages to restore airflow.
Today, most ENT physicians perform sinus surgery using a minimally invasive technique that involves working inside the nose using a flexible tube with light and a camera attached to it. This allows the surgeon to clear obstructions while keeping surrounding tissue intact.
In some cases, an incision is necessary to reach certain areas that are not easily reached with an endoscope.
Our head and neck surgeons at Southern ENT Associates have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a full range of conditions that affect the head and neck.
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is the most common surgical method to treat persistent sinus problems. Preparation is key to a smooth surgery and recovery. With a few tips, you can increase the likelihood that your surgery will be smooth sailing.
Before your surgery, we provide detailed instructions for you to follow. Discuss them with your surgeon if you have any questions regarding preparation for your surgery.
Gather postoperative supplies
Gather some supplies before surgery so you have them ready after your procedure. You’ll need a sinus rinse kit to flush out your sinuses after surgery and keep them moist so they heal properly. After surgery, we instruct you to rinse your sinuses several times a day.
Other helpful supplies include the following:
- Mini ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Supportive pillows to keep your head elevated and reduce swelling and bleeding
- Dry mouth spray
- Nasal saline spray to keep your sinuses moist
- Hydrogen peroxide and cotton swabs to keep your nose clean
- Tylenol or other pain medicine
- Stool softener to prevent constipation (side effect of prescription pain medication)
Additional steps to prepare for sinus surgery
Certain medications and supplements increase your risk of bleeding. We provide instructions on when to stop these medications. For instance, you should stop using ibuprofen at least five days before surgery.
Tell us about any medications you’re taking and ask whether you should take them on the morning of surgery.
We also instruct you to stop smoking at least three weeks before your surgery. And you need to arrange to have a family member or friend drive you home after your surgery.
What to expect after surgery
It’s normal to have some nasal stuffiness that lasts anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks after surgery. Most of our patients are able to return to work or school a week following the procedure. During the first few days, you’ll have some bleeding and drainage from your nose.
Change the bandage under your nose as needed. Sleep with your head elevated and take medication to manage pain as directed. Applying an ice pack on your nose and cheeks helps to reduce swelling and bleeding.
Saline sinus rinses are key to flushing away the crust and keeping your sinuses moist. Use your sinus rinse beginning a day or two following the procedure.
You can expect to make several visits to our office for 4-6 weeks after surgery to clear out blood and debris. You may notice a discolored discharge for several weeks. This is normal.
Go easy for the first week or two after your surgery, and avoid straining, bending, and strenuous exercise.
If you have any questions or concerns about your surgery, discuss it with one of our team members. Give us a call at Southern ENT Associates to schedule a visit. Our team will ensure that you understand the preparation for your procedure.
Our offices are located in Thibodaux, Houma, Raceland, Morgan City, New Iberia, Opelousas, and Youngsville, Louisiana.