Post-Operative Instructions: Submucous Reduction of Inferior Turbinate

INDICATIONS:

• This surgery is most often performed to reduce the size of the inferior turbinate – small bones that project into the nose from the lateral wall covered with a very vascular mucosal membrane. Their function is to warm and humidify the air you breathe.
• When the turbinate become too large they can cause nasal obstruction.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• A feeling of pressure and discomfort in the nasal area is to be expected.
• Some bleeding should be expected post operatively. A moustache dressing will be taped under your nose to catch any oozing. Change it as often as needed.
• The first 12 to 18 hours after surgery seems to be the time of most discomfort.
• Your nose will feel congested until the swelling inside subsides about one to two weeks after surgery.

ACTIVITY:

• Avoid strenuous activity: lifting, bending, straining, or vigorous exercising for 2 weeks.
• No blowing your nose for one week after surgery and then resume gently.
• If you need to sneeze, do it with your mouth open to prevent nasal irritation.
• The first night keep your head elevated—the higher the better. Sleeping in a recliner can help. Then keep your head elevated 30 degrees for the first week after surgery.
• Use a cool-mist humidifier at your bedside to help moisturize membranes in your nose and mouth. • Avoid any travel requiring rapid elevation changes, i.e., airline or mountain travel for 4-6 weeks.
• Use saline spray to keep membranes moist and free of crusts. Use hourly while awake. Begin the day of surgery.
• Irrigate your nose twice a day with the buffered saline solution. Begin the day after your surgery.

DIET:

• In the immediate post-operative period start with clear liquids. If there is no nausea you may advance your diet as tolerated.
• Maintain an adequate fluid intake throughout the post-surgical period.

MEDICATIONS:

• Pain medication will be prescribed, as well as a Nasal spray. Take as directed at the proper interval.
• Take antibiotics as directed. Begin taking them the day before surgery.
• Apply Polysporin Ointment four times a day with a q-tip just inside the nasal openings.
• Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, or similar medications for three weeks after surgery.

REASONS TO CONTACT DOCTOR:

• Excessive bleeding or fever, rash or diarrhea (signs of toxic shock syndrome).
• Noticeable swelling around either eye or decreased vision.
• For follow-up appointment if one was not made pre-operatively.
• Do not hesitate to contact Dr. AKhan for advise.


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