The following is intended as a reference guide for patients of Dr. Smith only.
Please consult your physician for questions regarding endoscopic sinus surgery.

• You should anticipate frequent return visits to our office for sinus cleanings over the next six weeks until appropriate healing of the sinuses can be assured. You should already have had these appointments made for you.

• It is normal to have some bleeding for several days after surgery. If bleeding occurs, tilt your head back slightly and breathe gently through the nose. If you leave the hospital with a dressing under your nose, you may change the dressing as needed. If bleeding persists for an extended period of time, please call our office.

• Do not blow your nose for one week following surgery. After one week you may begin to blow your nose gently. If you feel the need to sneeze, do not suppress it but instead sneeze with your mouth open.

• For one to two weeks after surgery, use a saline nasal spray (non-decongestant) every 1-2 hours during the day to keep your nose and sinuses moisturized.

• Your doctor may order a sinus rinse kit for you. The purpose of this procedure is to flush the accumulated blood clots and crusts from your nose. Sinus rinses should be done twice a day beginning the day after surgery.

• You will be taking antibiotics for several weeks after surgery which may cause gastrointestinal upset in some patients. Taking active culture yoghurt or acidophilus tablets (available at health food stores) on a daily basis may help to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. If you develop severe diarrhea, stop your antibiotics and contact our office.

• We recommend taking a dose of pain medication about 45 minutes to one hour before your first postoperative visit. Make sure not to drive if you are taking narcotic pain medications. Do not take any aspirin or aspirin-related products (Motrin/Advil/Aleve, etc.) for one week after surgery. If you wish a non-narcotic alternative, extra-strength Tylenol is often sufficient.

• Please refrain from all strenuous activity for at least two weeks, including bending, lifting, or straining. You may begin light exercise (e.g., walking) one week after surgery.

• Several weeks after your surgery, you may notice some dark brown nasal discharge. This represents old blood and mucus being cleared from the sinuses and is normal. It does not represent a sinus infection.

• Call our office as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:
  • Fever, higher than 101F
  • Clear, watery nasal drainage
  • Any visual changes or marked swelling of the eyes
  • Severe headache or neck stiffness
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Brisk bleeding