Septum swelling after Septoplasty and turbinate reduction 4 weeks??

Question

Hi I had a septoplasty and turbinate reduction 4 weeks ago and he septum wall on my right hand side appears swollen compared to the left, which has much more space to breathe. I suffered a bleed last week which stopped after I pinched it for a bit. I saw my GP who looked up it with her torch but said it does not appear swollen but infected due to some white discharge on the septum. I've not gone back to work yet as I am concerned about further infection. Any advice would be great. Thanks

Shaun C. Desai, MD, FACS · Answer

Septal swelling can last up to 4-6 weeks after surgery. Signs of infection include fevers, increasing fatigue, pus drainage, and worsening pain which could necessitate antibiotics or further intervention. White spots after septoplasty can be normal healing. I would follow up with your surgeon as scheduled.

Scott Walen, MD · Answer

Hi there,Septum swelling after surgery is common and can last 4-6 weeks.  This can be longer if this was a revision surgery or if you smoke.  In addition, coexisting allergies can contribute to swelling, particularly this time of year.  The white color can be normal tissue healing.  My recommendation is to use nasal saline spray 3-4 times per day and to follow-up with your surgeon.

Septum swelling after Septoplasty and turbinate reduction 4 weeks??

Answers (2)