Post-Operative Care After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Post-Operative Care After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Rest & Activity

  • Relative rest is recommended for the first 48 hours.
  • Keep the head elevated while sleeping.
  • Avoid heavy activities for two weeks.
  • Light activity is allowed after two weeks.
  • Regular exercise may resume after one month.
  • Swimming and strenuous exercise are permitted after three months.
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Nose Blowing & Sneezing

  • Avoid nose blowing for six weeks.
  • Sneeze with your mouth open.
  • Avoid excessive nasal pressure.
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Bleeding & Discharge

  • Mild bloody discharge during the first few days is normal.
  • Seek medical attention if bleeding is heavy or persistent.
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Nasal Irrigation

Start saline nasal irrigation the day after surgery as instructed.
Regular irrigation helps prevent adhesions and promotes healing.

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Medications

  • Take prescribed antibiotics and nasal sprays as directed.
  • Avoid blood-thinning medications unless approved by your physician.
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Smoking

Avoid smoking and hookah for at least four months, as they impair healing and increase recurrence risk.

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Follow-Up Visits

Regular follow-up visits and postoperative debridement are essential.

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Warning Signs

  • Severe bleeding
  • High fever
  • Severe uncontrolled pain
  • Eye swelling or vision changes
  • Continuous clear nasal discharge
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Recovery

  • Nasal congestion may persist for several weeks.
  • Final results are typically seen within 4–6 weeks.
  • Long-term medical therapy is important in patients with nasal polyps.
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