Is It Normal to Not Be Given Antibiotics After Septoplasty?

Question

I was not prescribed any antibiotics after septoplasty, from the research I've done this doesn't seem normal. Should I be worried? Also asked to be given something to help me sleep, since it is not normal for me to fall asleep with my mouth open. Nurse said I would be able to breath through my nose the first night, however, this is not the case. I have slept maybe a total of 2 hours in the 12 hours that I have been home since the surgery. Asked if I could take melatonin instead, no answer.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no standardized protocol for peri-operative antibiotic prophylaxis after septoplasty, though most surgeons will use intra-operative and post-operative antibiotics.  The rate of infection after septoplasty is very low, and your surgeon should advise you on how to identify one.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Andy06, I personally place all of my septoplasty patients on antibiotics for five days after surgery. The antibiotic used depends on each persons medical history and possible allergies. It is not common to be able to breath through the nose the first night for my patients as they have small packs in. Those are removed the next morning typically allowing for better breathing. With this said you will still have some swelling in this phase of the recovery which may limit the patients breathing. I prescribe some mild sleep aids for my patients for the week after surgery. Use some ice chips and popsicles to help with the dry mouth from mouth breathing and hopefully in a few days you will be resting well again. Sleep elevated with three to four pillows behind your back, avoid salty foods, heat and sun exposure to help reduce your swelling. Best regards and wishing you a speedy recovery. Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Is It Normal to Not Be Given Antibiotics After Septoplasty?

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Is It Normal to Not Be Given Antibiotics After Septoplasty?

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Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

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