Septoplasty Recovery Program
Septoplasty recovery had a few different recovery expectations depends on the types of septoplasty recovery procedures. There are three main types of septoplasty recovery procedures; they are augmentation, reduction and shaping. Augmentation is basically the process of enlarging the nose. Reduction is reducing the size of the nose. And shaping is where the nose is simply re-shaped. Of the three septoplasty recovery procedures, shaping generally has the fastest recovery time as it is the simplest and least invasive surgery compared the other two operations. The recovery time needed for a septoplasty surgery is the time it takes the patient to recover from the effects of whatever anesthetic was used. As soon as the anesthetic effect is gone, the septoplasty recovery period is over.
How Long Is Septoplasty Recovery?
The normal septoplasty recovery period ranges from 7 to 10 days. In most of the surgeries done, a splint will usually be applied to the nose to protect it during this recovery period. It is common to have swelling of the nose around the area operated on during the recovery period. There will also be pain and discomfort when breathing right after the surgery. It is advised to breathe through the mouth during the recovery period. As for augmentation and reduction surgery, the recovery time usually takes much longer depending on the severity of the septoplasty recovery procedure. As with both procedures, pain and discomfort is more likely to last well past 10 days and more care is to be taken for this recovery procedures.
What I Must Do During Septoplasty Recovery
During first week of septoplasty recovery you must avoid breathing by nose, try breathing through your mouth. Avoid blowing your nose for a week to clear any drainage, instead you must sniff. Also, keep your mouth open while you sneeze. Though it’s your nose that is operated, you need to skip any strenuous physical activities like exercise, sports, etc for 2-3 weeks. You can use contact lenses, but do not use glasses for about 6-7 weeks. Airline travel must also be avoided for a few weeks after septoplasty recovery. Doctor will commonly recommend application of ice packs over the nose in order to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Your doctor will probably advise you to use nasal spray during your recovery as this keeps your nostrils moist, decreases drainage, opens your nose, and decreases bleeding.
On your fourth day of septoplasty recovery, you can stop using the nasal spray except for when you notice your nose bleeding. You should continue to use the saline spray for three weeks. Depending on the type of spray, a doctor will prescribe the frequency and period for which you need to continue its use. Visiting the doctor on time for regular follow-ups is must and essential part of this recovery process. You can slowly resume your routine work in a period of 2 months. Take the prescribed painkillers on time and for the given duration. Avoid bending down for the first 2-3 days. Keeping your head elevated by using 3-4 pillows when you lie down will help reduce nasal drainage. These are few important tips of for a faster septoplasty recovery.
