Had Rhinoplasty/Septoplasty surgery 3 days ago

Hello all!  I had my rhinoplasty/septoplasty procedure 3 days ago.  I have to say its been a completely miserable experience as I suspect that throughout my recovery I've managed to catch my daughter's cold.  I knew recovery would be uncomforttable but I feel like I got hit by a truck!  Somehow the nurse forgot to give me any post op instructions and I just found out today that I was supposed to be irrigating with saline spray (8 times a day), and Afrin (every 8 hours).  Wow!  Do I feel better after using the saline spray just a couple of times.  But, I was wondering.  I have these strings coming out of my nose on both sides, and the strings are taped to my face.  What in the heck are they??  Anyone know. I feel like an idiot that I don't know.