Septoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a deviated septum to improve nasal breathing and alleviate related symptoms. Proper aftercare and adherence to post-operative guidelines are essential for achieving optimal healing and long-term results. At Beverly Hills Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, we provide comprehensive instructions to support your recovery process:

Immediate Post-Operative Care:

1. Monitoring and Discharge:

   • After your septoplasty procedure, you will be monitored in our recovery area until you are awake and stable. Once cleared by our medical team, you will be discharged with detailed aftercare instructions.

2. Pain Management:

   • You may experience mild discomfort or pain after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort effectively. Take these medications as directed.

3. Nasal Packing or Splints:

   • In some cases, dissolvable nasal packing or splints may be placed inside the nostrils to support the septum as it heals. Your surgeon will provide instructions on when and how these will be removed.

Home Care Instructions:

1. Head Elevation:

   • Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to minimize swelling and promote drainage. Use extra pillows to prop yourself up comfortably.

2. Cold Compresses:

   • Use cold compresses or ice packs wrapped in a cloth to gently apply to the nasal area (over the bridge of the nose and cheeks, not directly on the surgical site) to reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day, during the first few days post-surgery.

3. Avoiding Nasal Trauma:

   • To prevent injury to the healing septum, avoid blowing your nose forcefully or inserting anything into your nostrils. Use saline nasal spray as recommended by your surgeon to keep the nasal passages moist.

4. Medications:

   • Take all prescribed medications, including antibiotics if prescribed, to prevent infection and aid in healing. Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding medication use.

Activity Restrictions:

1. Rest and Relaxation:

   • Plan to rest and avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and vigorous exercise, for at least the first week after surgery. Physical exertion can increase swelling and delay healing.

2. Avoiding Environmental Factors:

   • Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, dust, pollutants, and allergens that could irritate the nasal passages and compromise healing.

3. Driving and Work:

   • Refrain from driving and returning to work until cleared by your surgeon. Recovery times may vary, but most patients can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks, depending on individual healing.

Follow-Up Visits:

1. Scheduled Appointments:

   • Attend all follow-up appointments scheduled with your surgeon at Beverly Hills Specialty Hospital. These visits are essential for removing nasal packing or splints, evaluating healing progress, and addressing any concerns you may have.

2. Monitoring Results:

   • Your surgeon will monitor your nasal passages and assess your breathing function to ensure that the septum remains straight and properly aligned. They will provide guidance on when you can gradually resume activities and exercise.

Long-Term Care:

1. Nasal Hygiene:

   • Follow your surgeon’s instructions for nasal hygiene, including gentle cleaning of the nostrils with saline solution or as recommended. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing.

2. Avoiding Nasal Strain:

   • Avoid activities that strain the nose, such as lifting heavy objects or bending over excessively, until your surgeon advises it is safe to do so.

3. Healthy Lifestyle:

   • Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. These habits support overall healing and immune function.

Recovery Timeline:

1. Immediate Days After Surgery:

   • Expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first few days, which will gradually improve with proper care and rest.

2. First Week:

   • Most patients can return to light activities within the first week, but full recovery may take several weeks as swelling continues to diminish and the nasal passages heal.

3. Final Results:

   • The final results of septoplasty become fully apparent once all swelling has resolved and the nasal tissues have stabilized. Patience is key, as improvement in nasal breathing and overall comfort will continue to enhance over time.