Septoplasty
Date issued: December 2024
For review: December 2026
Ref: A-662/TA/ENT/Septoplasty
PDF: Septoplasty (Tavistock Hospital)[pdf] 177KB
Rest and activity
When you go home, you are advised to rest quietly. Do not fulfil any social engagements on that day. If you are still sore, you should continue to rest until you feel better. This could take a few days. If you do not improve, you should see or contact your GP.
Pain
It is normal to experience some nose discomfort for 24 to 48 hours after your operation. You will find that a painkiller at regular intervals will help you. If the pain increases in the nose or you develop tenderness at the tip of your nose, you should contract your GP.
Wound
If bleeding occurs, press with a clean dry cloth on top of the nose for 5 to 10 minutes; try to keep your head elevated as much as possible. You may have stitches inside your nose, these usually dissolve (may take 4 to 6 weeks).
Aftercare
For the first 2 days after the operation, you should not blow your nose. After two days you may blow gently. If the nose is blocked sniffing may help. You may not feel any improvement in breathing through your nose for a few weeks after the operation because the lining tissues of the nose as a result of the surgery may also take several weeks to settle.
Avoid hot baths and vigorous exercise for five days after your operation to help prevent bleeding.
Follow-up
If needed, the appointment will be sent to you through the post.
Problems
If non-urgent problems occur in the first 72 hours and you need information or advice: please ring Tavistock Hospital on 01752 436100
Out of hours: Contact NHS 111
After 72 Hours: Contact your own GP or 111
If you notice any signs of infection, such as, redness, swelling, heat, odorous discharge, or pain, please contact your G.P. If you do develop an infection within two weeks of your surgery, please let us know by calling 01752 436100
In an emergency
Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.
