What's best course of action for sinus infection-prone patient for rhinoplasty?

Question

I am prone to sinus pain and infection when I fly. I am considering surgeons who are out of state and all of them have told me that it's ok to fly back immediately after stint removal which is 7 days from day of surgery . I am afraid flying may increase my risk of infection and also discomfort. What's the best course of action? How many days do you recommend your out of town patients to stay in town for rhinoplasty? Please provide rationale

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! Great questions. If a patient is coming from out-of-town, then I recommend staying for 1 week. This will allow any issues to be attended to and the cast, splints, and sutures taken out. Flying after 1 week may cause sinus pressure, but most patients tolerate it well. A decongestant and mild steroid around the time of flying helps. Hope this is useful!

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Each plastic surgeon has developed their own unique pre- and post-operative rhinoplasty protocol based upon their training and lifelong clinical experience. In our practice, we usually allow patients to fly one week following surgery, as nosebleeds may occur in the first few postoperative days. If prone to frequent sinus infections, a prophylactic preoperative / postoperative antibiotic may be of value.
Discuss this issue with your plastic surgeon.
Best wishes...

What's best course of action for sinus infection-prone patient for rhinoplasty?

Answers (2)