Before Your Surgery
Key Preparation Steps:
- Arrange for Post-Surgery Support:
You will need someone to pick you up from the hospital after your surgery and stay with you for at least the first night. Plan for 1-2 weeks off work, depending on how strenuous your job is. Dr. Yip will give you specific details during your pre-op visit. - Avoid Certain Medications and Supplements:
In the week leading up to your surgery, avoid taking aspirin (ASA), vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic pills, ginseng, Echinacea, and St. John’s Wort. These can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. However, Tylenol and Advil are safe to take if needed. If you are on blood thinners or anticoagulants, consult with Dr. Yip on when to stop these medications. - Quit Smoking or Vaping:
Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of complications. Stop smoking at least 7 days before and after surgery to give your body the best chance for recovery. - Prepare for Nasal Rinsing:
You’ll need to have a NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit ready for post-operative care. Do not use a Netipot. You will start using the rinse on the first day after surgery and you will use at least 4 bottles per day. Be sure to use distilled or previously boiled water that has been cooled, and always add a pre-mixed salt package from the NeilMed kit. - Fasting Before Surgery:
On the night before your surgery, do not eat or drink anything after midnight. You may take your regular medications with a small sip of water in the morning unless otherwise directed.
After Your Surgery
Recovery Instructions:
- Follow-Up Appointment:
Dr. Yip’s office will contact you to schedule your follow-up appointment 1-2 weeks after surgery. The appointment information is usually provided to you by email from his surgical coordinator. If you haven’t been contacted within 3 days post-op, please call the office. - Post-Surgery Activity:
Avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting (over 10 lbs), bending over, or exercise for at least 2 weeks. These activities can increase your risk of a serious nosebleed. However, light daily activities like walking are fine. - Nasal Care: Starting Your Rinse:
Begin rinsing your nose with the NeilMed Sinus Rinse the day after surgery. Use one full bottle four times a day. If it feels difficult to get the rinse into your nose at first, this is normal—keep trying, but do not apply excessive pressure to the bottle. - What to Avoid Post-Surgery:
- No nose blowing for 2 weeks.
- If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to prevent strain on your healing nasal passages.
- No aspirin (ASA) for 10 days post-op unless instructed otherwise by a physician.
- Normal Post-Op Symptoms:
- Mild bleeding or watery/bloody discharge from your nose for the first few days.
- Nasal congestion, thick mucus, or “snot” for a few weeks post-surgery.
- A plugged sensation in your nose, and facial pressure or headaches, especially in the first week.
- It is also common to experience some numbness in your teeth and facial areas.
- Showering and Eating:
You can shower and eat normally the day after surgery. Keep your nasal area dry and be cautious of any irritation around your nasal passage.
Signs to Watch For and When to Seek Help
While most patients recover without issues, it’s important to stay vigilant for any signs of complications. Proceed to your nearest emergency room as soon as possible or call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, emergency situations may include:
- High fever and/or chills
- Severe or persistent facial swelling, redness, or pain
- Eye swelling or visual changes
- Heavy, unrelenting nosebleeds that do not stop with pressure and time.
For non-emergency concerns, such as moderate discomfort or questions about your recovery, you can contact our office or Alberta Health Link by dialing 811 to speak with a nurse for general advice.
At Your First Post-Operative Visit
At your follow-up visit, Dr. Yip will likely perform a nasal endoscopy and sinonasal debridement (cleaning) to assess the healing process. If splints were placed during surgery, they will be removed during this visit. It’s recommended to take a pain reliever 30 minutes before your appointment to make the process more comfortable. You may want to have someone accompany you.
Surgery recovery requires patience and adherence to these guidelines for optimal healing.
By following these guidelines and attending your post-operative appointments, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful recovery. Remember, each patient heals at their own pace, so be patient with yourself and reach out to our office if you have any concerns along the way.
