Congestion after septoplasty or turbinate reduction can reflect swelling, crusting, packing or splints during healing. Follow your surgical team’s nasal-care instructions and ask when to use any prescribed spray or rinse. Do not assume every symptom is normal or start a new treatment solely from an online guide.
Septoplasty addresses the nasal septum; turbinate reduction addresses enlarged turbinates. The procedures performed and your own progress affect recovery.
Septoplasty and turbinoplasty recovery & aftercare for nasal congestion
Recovery is individual. Ask your surgeon how swelling, packing and any combined procedures may affect breathing, and keep the planned follow-up appointments.
How long does congestion last after septoplasty?
Knowing that congestion will be experienced immediately following the surgical procedure, you may ask yourself, “When will I be able to breathe after septoplasty?”
There is no single day when every patient breathes freely again. Gloucestershire Hospitals’ septoplasty aftercare guidance explains that swelling can leave the nose feeling blocked for a few weeks. Ask your treating surgeon what to expect for your own operation and when persistent or worsening symptoms need assessment.
Your physician may also insert a special nasal packing in the nose post-surgery or place intranasal splints during the procedure. Though both of these will add to the general congestion, they can also contribute to a faster overall recovery. The packing and the splints will be removed from your nose at one of your follow up appointments when appropriate.
Discuss the following measures with your surgical team and use them only as instructed, including the timing and technique for any saline spray or irrigation:
- Using a cool-mist vaporizer
- Using a humidifier in your bedroom
- Using salt-water and saline irrigation to reduce swelling and inflammation
- Taking decongestants as prescribed by your doctor
- Resting with your head elevated
While decongestant nasal sprays are available over-the-counter, it’s important to note that excessive use is one of the causes of enlarged turbinates.
What to eat after septoplasty and turbinate reduction?
Follow your own diet instructions and ask about food and drink temperature, nausea and comfortable meal choices. See our guide to eating after septoplasty for questions to discuss with the care team.
Questions about Congestion after Septoplasty and Turbinate Reduction?
If you have already had surgery, contact your treating surgical team about symptoms or changes in recovery. University of Mississippi Medical Center’s postoperative guidance identifies persistent bleeding or pain, fever and vision concerns as reasons to contact the physician. Severe symptoms require prompt medical assessment rather than waiting for an online consultation response.
Planning Nasal Breathing Surgery in Los Angeles or Hollywood?
For an assessment before treatment, review septoplasty and functional rhinoplasty. Different causes of obstruction may require different plans.
Dr. Jacob Sedgh practices in West Hollywood, serving Los Angeles and Hollywood. Review his actual training and certifications, then request a consultation to discuss your symptoms, prior treatment and goals.
Posted on behalf of Sedgh Plastic Surgery