Septoplasty corrects a deviated nasal septum, the wall of cartilage and bone dividing the nasal cavity. This misalignment can obstruct airflow, leading to breathing difficulties and other issues. Following this surgery, careful post-operative care, particularly concerning nose blowing, is crucial for proper healing and optimal outcomes.
Why Nose Blowing is Restricted After Septoplasty
Immediately after septoplasty, the nasal passages are in a delicate state of healing. The surgical site contains sutures and, in some cases, internal splints or packing to support the reshaped septum. Forceful nose blowing creates significant pressure within the nasal cavity. This pressure can dislodge internal supports, disrupt healing tissues, or lead to complications like bleeding or increased swelling.
Nasal tissues need time to stabilize and for internal incisions to close. Applying pressure before sufficient healing risks tearing fragile blood vessels, which can result in a nosebleed, or impeding the re-establishment of the septal structure, potentially compromising surgical results. Therefore, avoiding nose blowing is a crucial part of early post-operative care.
When You Can Safely Blow Your Nose
The timeline for safely resuming nose blowing after septoplasty varies based on individual healing, surgery extent, and surgeon’s instructions. Patients are generally advised to avoid blowing their nose for at least 10 to 14 days following the procedure.
The primary goal during this period is to prevent pressure or trauma to the healing septum. If internal splints or packing were used, these are typically removed at the first post-operative visit, usually within a few days to a week. This removal may influence when gentle blowing can begin. Always receive direct clearance from your surgeon before attempting to blow your nose, as they assess healing progress.
Techniques for Gentle Nose Blowing and Nasal Care
Once cleared by a surgeon, nose blowing should be done with extreme gentleness. A recommended technique involves blowing one nostril at a time with minimal force, rather than clearing both simultaneously. This controlled approach reduces pressure on healing nasal structures. Also, avoid vigorous sniffling, which creates similar harmful pressures.
If a sneeze occurs, do not hold it back. Instead, sneeze with your mouth open to dissipate pressure and prevent it from building in the nasal cavity. Nasal care also includes saline rinses, which keep passages moist and clear of debris and dried blood. Humidification, such as using a cool mist humidifier, can alleviate congestion and prevent dryness during recovery.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While some discomfort and drainage are normal after septoplasty, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Report excessive or persistent bleeding, especially if it saturates a drip pad every 15 minutes or more. Signs of infection, such as a fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C) or higher, chills, increased pain, or yellowish-green discharge with a foul smell, also require contacting your surgeon.
Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication, difficulty breathing, or concerns about the healing process, like splints coming out prematurely, should prompt a call to your medical team.