How to tell if the my nose drainage is normal mucous and CSF leakage after sinus operation?

We are often asked if fluid draining form the nose after Rhinoplasty is 'brain fluid'. It is not. The nose discharges copious amounts of clear mucous after surgery and this is often confused with CSF. The causes are multiple: normal draining of the tear ducts, packing placement and removal, allergies, mucosal trauma, and reactive mucosal secretions.  Remember, Rhinoplasty does not involve working on the skull base or the cribiform area where endoscopic sinus surgery occurs. Osteotomies are done on the nasal bones, which are well away for those areas. It will resolve.

Good question. CSF is watery, literally as if a faucet is dripping. Early after surgery it may be difficult to tell between the blood, mucous, and saline rinses. If it truly is CSF collecting some to assay for Beta2transferrin, a protein unique in CSF and the eye, is the easiest way to make the diagnosis. You'll have a better idea once you're past these next couple weeks. Express your concern with your surgeon