Post-Op Sinus Surgery DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS FOR NASAL OR SINUS SURGERY GENERAL: 1. Bleeding is quite common after surgery and will slowly diminish over 4 to 7 days.  If excessive, call the office. 2. Swelling of the outer nose is usually minimal unless a rhinoplasty("breaking of the outer nose") was performed. 3. Expect the nose to be blocked during the first week after surgery, this is due to blood and mucus, and swelling inside the nose. 4. Head elevation is important for 7 days after surgery. Do not apply ice unless your physician instructs you to do so. 5. Medications will be prescribed on an individual basis. 6. After surgery your physician will tell you when to come to the office for a follow up. Internal packing, splints, or a cast will be removed at that time. 7. Aspirin or ibuprofen should be avoided, since this can increase bleeding. 8. Increased activity that increases blood pressure or pulse should be avoided for 2 to 3 weeks, as this may cause excessive bleeding. 9. Activity should be limited for the first week. You can gradually resume normal activities over the second and third week, under the direction of your physician. 10. You may clean the nostrils with hydrogen peroxide, and may apply antibiotic ointment or Vaseline. You may use Bacitracin, Neosporin, Polysporin antibiotic ointment. 11. You may shower or bathe after surgery, but exercise caution if you have a cast in place. If there is an external cast, direct the water below your face. 166 Kinsley Street Nashua, NH 03060 603-595-4800 130 Tarrytown Rd Manchester, NH 03103 603-669-0831   Any information provided on this Web site should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for a consultation with a physician. If you have a medical problem, contact your local physician for diagnosis and treatment. © 2004-2005 ENT Physicians & Surgeons, P.A.