Recovery from skull base surgery takes longer than routine sinus surgery. This can include procedures such as endoscopic CSF leak repair, or surgery for tumors near the skull base. The details depend a lot on what was treated. Here's a general picture.
In the hospital
You'll be watched closely for the first day or more. This includes checks on your vision, how alert you are, and any nose drainage. This is normal, not a sign of a problem.
The first weeks at home
Feeling tired is common. Give yourself real time to rest. You'll likely be told to avoid bending forward, lifting heavy things, and straining. These can raise pressure in ways that slow healing.
Your surgeon may prescribe a budesonide (often known by the brand name Pulmicort) nasal rinse to help the skull base repair heal and reduce crusting. Use it only as instructed by your surgical team.
Flying and CPAP
Do not fly until your surgical team has cleared you to do so. Changes in air pressure during flight can affect healing at the skull base.
If you use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, do not resume it until your surgical team has cleared you. CPAP pushes air under pressure through the nose, which can interfere with healing of the skull base repair.
Follow-up care
You'll have regular follow-up visits. These often include a nose exam to check healing, and scans now and then to make sure things are going well.
Contact your surgical team promptly if you notice: clear fluid dripping from your nose, a severe headache, fever, vision changes, or a stiff neck.