Post Operative Care for Nasal Surgery You have undergone major surgery. For a speedier recovery, please act accordingly and follow these instructions. Anesthesia: You may experience a sore throat post-operatively. This is common after general anesthesia and will clear up in a few days. Nausea: If you have any nausea, take only clear liquids until the nausea has subsided. You may then resume a normal diet. Rest: Bed rest is recommended for the first 24 hours. You may be up for meals and to the bathroom with assistance. Keep your head propped on two or more pillows. Do no lie flat. Pain: You may have discomfort for several days. Use the prescription medication as directed to control any pain. Or, extra strength Tylenlol may be sufficient. Do not use Ibuprofen, Motrin , Advil or aspirin - they may cause bruising or bleeding. Adverse Reactions: If you experience any adverse reactions such as increased swelling, redness, heat and sudden fever (101º or above), please call our nursing staff for advice. Smoking: Smoking delays wound healing. Do not smoke for eight weeks postoperatively. Avoid secondary smoke if possible. Driving: Wait at least 24 hours after you have stopped taking pain medication to drive a car or operate machinery. Exercise/Activity: After three weeks, you may resume normal physical activities. Wait an additional three weeks before you resume strenuous activities. You may return to light work whenever you feel able after surgery, but check with your doctor first. Expect black and blue eyes with swelling of the eyelids. This may increase for several days. Apply ice compresses to eyes for the first 24 hours. To do this, use a washcloth that has been soaked in a basin of ice and tap water. Alternate cloths to maintain coldness of the cloth. This will help reduce bruising and swelling. Expect bloody drainage from the tip of your nose. Use a little gauze or folded tissue as a drip pad and change as needed. The draining should subside after 24 hours. Expect bloody drainage into the back of your throat, To keep mouth fresh, use a mouthwash frequently. The nasal splint is to remain in place for one to two weeks. You may reinforce the splint with tape, but do not remove it yourself. The tape underneath the splint will be removed in two weeks. If any of the splint becomes displaced, please call the office to see your doctor. Do not wear sunglasses or eyeglasses until permitted by your doctor. Do not blow or attempt to clean the nose. Do not bend or perform any activities that increase pressure to the nose or face. During your next appointment, the nasal packing will be removed. Upon removal of the nasal packing, additional nasal drainage should be expected. At this time you will be advised about nose drops or spray to help clear congestion. Use only if needed.