2 months after septoplasty and turbinate reduction swelling/concerns.

Question

I had a Septoplasty & Turbinate reduction early September. Since the surgery I still had issues breathing. One side of my nose would always get clogged while sleeping. My doctor told me to wait and that it should get better because of the swelling. Well, last week it started to get worse. My breathing is worse then before the surgery and I have constant sinus pressure/congestion and getting headaches. I went to see my doctor and he said to wait 6 months and it "MAY GET BETTER". Is this normal?

Albert W. Chow, MD · Answer

Two months is too short of a time to make final conclusions on the effectiveness of the septoplasty.  I would wait a minimum of 6 and up to 12 months.  Steroid sprays can be helpful to reduce post surgical swelling especially if the inferior turbinates were operated on at the same time and the saline irrigations to reduce crusting that can lead to easily fixable obstruction by clearing out the "boogers".

Jordan Rihani, MD · Answer

It is difficult to say without understanding more of the details of your case (how deviated your septum was, whether there was cartilage grafting of the nasal valve, etc). Constant sinus pressure and headaches are not typical and may warrant evaluation by an Ear Nose and Throat physician to ensure there is no obstruction of your sinus cavities. Typical swelling may go away gradually, but may also be complicated by allergies. Continue to discuss your concerns with your surgeon during the healing process.

Mohsen Tavoussi, MD, DO · Answer

It will take about 6 months or more for the swelling to resolve. However, there some remedies that you use to improve your breathing. Saline spray as well as nasal steroid spray can improve this.

2 months after septoplasty and turbinate reduction swelling/concerns.

Answers (3)