Endoscopic sinus surgery is done through the nostrils, with no cuts on the face. Most people go home the same day, once they are alert and comfortable.
The first few days
A little blood in your mucus, some stuffiness, and feeling tired are all normal at first. Most people have mild-to-moderate discomfort or pressure — not severe pain. Unless we tell you otherwise, you can start nose rinses the day after surgery.
Your medicine after surgery
You'll usually go home with a few medicines. Your own plan may look a bit different depending on your surgery.
- Nasal saline rinses. This is the most important part of your recovery. Rinsing clears out blood and crusting and helps your sinuses heal cleanly. You'll usually start this the day after surgery.
- Steroid medicine. A nasal spray or rinse, and sometimes steroid pills for a short time, brings down swelling as your nose heals. This matters most if you had nasal polyps.
- Antibiotics. Not everyone needs these. They're sometimes given around surgery time to lower the risk of infection.
- Pain relief. A simple pain reliever is usually enough for the mild-to-moderate discomfort most people feel. Avoid aspirin and other blood-thinning pain medicine unless your doctor says it's okay — these can increase the risk of bleeding.
When can I exercise?
Light activity is usually fine after a few days. Hold off on hard exercise for about two weeks, to keep the risk of bleeding low.
Warning signs to watch for
Call your surgical team right away if you have: heavy or worsening bleeding, a severe headache, changes in your vision, a high fever, or a stiff neck.
When can I return to work?
Most people go back to easy, non-physical work within about a week. This can vary depending on how extensive your surgery was.