Stuffy nose preparation for rhinoplasty and septoplasty?

Question

I feel stuffy most days and i am considering a septoplasty and rhinoplasty. What preparation can I do months and weeks prior to the surgery. Is it advisable for me to take a decongestent, use saline sprays or histamines a month before the surgery

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

Good Morning! Prior to surgery, good nasal hygiene is always recommended. If allergies are present, antihistamines and saline rinses should be used to keep inflammation down. Maintaining a low salt diet is imperative to assist with post-procedure swelling. Decongestants, especially ones with pseudoephedrine, should be avoided for any prolonged period. The same goes with Afrin nasal spray. Eating a clean diet will help as well. Hope this helps!

Jeffrey Lisiecki, MD · Answer

Nasal saline spray is great and very safe. Oral antihistamines can also be helpful. Surgeons may feel differently about oral decongestants and nasal steroid sprays, so ask your surgeon their opinions and protocol for those medications. Make sure your surgeon knows whatever it is you are doing, and generally about your congestion. I would advise avoiding nasal decongestant sprays like Afrin, as they shouldn't be used for prolonged periods of time, and can cause adverse effects on your nasal mucosa.

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hello,
It is better to consult your rhinoplasty surgeon who can examine you to find out the reason why you feel congested, and whether you need any special preparation before surgery.

Stuffy nose preparation for rhinoplasty and septoplasty?

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Stuffy nose preparation for rhinoplasty and septoplasty?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.