I had my septoplasty 6 days back; all the bandages have been removed but I can't breathe at all?

Question

I had my septoplasty 6 days back all the bandages have been removed but I can't breathe at all from my nose I have been breathing through my mouth for last 6 days is it normal

Robert Deeb, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for the question.  It is not uncommon to have very little (or even zero) airflow only 6 days after surgery. There is a significant amount of swelling that occurs after septoplasty and it can take several weeks for it to fully subside.  Additionally there is often a lot of crusting and scabbing inside of the nose after this surgery which can also block airflow. 
The best thing you can do is use gentle saline (salt water) rinses for you nose which will help decrease the swelling and crusting. You should start to notice slow return of airflow of over the next 2-3 weeks. If you remain completely blocked then you should discuss this issue with your surgeon. 
Hope that helps and good luck!

Gina Chu, MD · Answer

Dear furqi,
Thank you for your question. It normal to have transient swelling after septoplasty that can come and go after the surgery but you should have periods where you can breathe through your nose and then periods where its more difficult. I would use a lot of nasal saline spray to irrigate your nose; this will help remove any old blood clots or crusting that is causing nasal blockage. You can do this as much as you like after surgery; although I would not blow your nose until your surgeon clears you to do so. If you have still having nasal obstruction after using nasal saline spray I would visit your surgeon for a check up.

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Hi post nasal surgery it needs good periodic nasal  saline douching to remove the crusts and dried up blood clots to keep your nasal airway patent so that  you can breath well .IT also prevents synechiae formation post nasal surgery .Get periodic follow up with your surgeon.

I had my septoplasty 6 days back; all the bandages have been removed but I can't breathe at all?

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