I had septoplasty surgery to my nose 3 days ago. Need to know if I can use a saline spray or saline rinse?

Question

I had septoplasty surgery to my nose 3 days ago. I was awake for it all but num so u didn’t feel much but hear the sound of what was going on which was horrifying. I have the dissolvable packing and they never really told me how long it will be gone or if I can use a SALINE rinse or just a saline spray... they really just did the surgery and sent me out... it was horrible.. please let me know when I should be able to breathe again I am going crazy.

Farhad Ardesh, MD · Answer

You really need to get in touch with your surgeon if it is only been three days since your surgery and you have questions like these. It is very common to not be able to breathe after the surgery for about one week through your nose. This can be a frustrating time for you. The inside of your nose has formed blood clots, crusting from secretions, and addition to the absorbable packing you may have plastic stents.  Usually in one week the nose is cleaned out and the stents are removed. You will be able to breathe much much better at that time.  I wish you the best, Dr. Ardeshirpour

I had septoplasty surgery to my nose 3 days ago. Need to know if I can use a saline spray or saline rinse?

Answers (1)