Septoplasty Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for septoplasty: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Nasal Care
- •Saline rinses are the most important thing you can do for healing
- •Do NOT blow your nose for 7 days
- •Sleep elevated to reduce congestion
Septoplasty recovery, day by day
Immediate Aftercare
- Nasal packing may be in place; breathe through your mouth
- Take pain medication before numbness or anesthesia fully wears off
- Keep head elevated at 30-45 degrees (2-3 pillows) to reduce swelling
- Rest for the remainder of the day
Activity & Diet
- Do NOT blow your nose for at least 7 days
- Sneeze with mouth OPEN to avoid pressure on surgical site
- No heavy lifting (>10 lbs) for 2 weeks
- Stay well hydrated
Recovery Expectations
- Congestion and bloody drainage are normal for 1-2 weeks
- Use saline rinses as prescribed (usually starting day 2-3)
- Take all medications on schedule, not just when pain is severe
- Ice packs on the outside can help with swelling
Wound Care
- Drip pad under nose is normal; change as needed
- Do not swim, submerge in water, or use hot tubs
- No strenuous exercise for 2 weeks (raises blood pressure in the nose)
Continued Healing
- Continue saline rinses as directed; congestion gradually improves over 4-6 weeks
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Smell and taste may be reduced initially; this usually returns
- Resume normal diet and activity as comfort allows
When to call your provider or 911
- •Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) that doesn't respond to medication
- •Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure
- •Severe pain not managed by prescribed medication
- •Signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing
- •Chest pain, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat
- •Redness, warmth, or pus at the incision site (signs of infection)
- •Sudden increase in swelling or pain after initial improvement
- •Numbness or tingling that worsens
- •Heavy nosebleed that doesn't stop with head elevation and gentle pressure
- •High fever above 101.5°F
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 5
Peak discomfort
Congestion and drainage worst, then improves
- Day 7
Follow-up visit
Post-op check with your ENT surgeon
- Day 15
Resume normal activity
Gradually return to full activities
- Day 21
Expected recovery
Complete healing verified at follow-up
For clinics
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