Removal of Nasal Adhesions

What to Expect After Surgery

Your nose should heal in 7 to 10 days.

After surgery, a spacer or splint may be placed in your nose for a few days to several weeks. This helps prevent another adhesion from forming. You should avoid blowing your nose while the spacer or splint is in place. Your doctor will probably suggest you use an ointment, such as bacitracin/polymyxin (for example, Polysporin), to keep your nose moist and prevent infection while the splint is in place.

A small amount of bleeding or drainage is normal. Your health professional will tell you how to clean your nasal passages using a salt water (saline) solution. Sneezing is common after nasal surgery, especially if you have allergies. You may be given an antihistamine (one that will not make you sleepy) to reduce the sneezing. These medications also may reduce swelling and the likelihood that adhesions will return.

You also may use a nasal anti-inflammatory (corticosteroid) spray. Although there is little evidence about the use of these sprays, some doctors think they may help prevent another adhesion from forming.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: February 26, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
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