If you’re getting ready for nasal polyp removal surgery, it’s natural to feel a little anxious or curious about what the process entails. The good news is that this kind of procedure, called endoscopic sinus surgery, is common. Best of all, most people find that the procedure significantly improves their breathing and quality of life.
To reduce any worries, let’s have a step-by-step look at what you can expect leading up to the surgery, the experience during the surgery itself, and the healing process that comes after.
Getting Ready for Your Operation: A Pre-Surgical Checklist
Prior to the surgical extraction of nasal polyps, your physician will provide you with detailed guidance to prep you for the procedure. Before surgery, you might get medication to decrease inflammation in your nasal passages and improve your general health. This may include nasal sprays or steroids to decrease the polyps and reduce swelling.
We will also review your medical history, talk about any medications you’re taking, and offer instructions on what to avoid before surgery. For instance, you might be asked to stop consuming certain blood-thinning medicines including aspirin or ibuprofen a few days before the surgery to minimize the danger of excessive bleeding. Moreover, it is likely that you will have to avoid ingesting food or drinks for a number of hours before the surgery, particularly if you will be going through general anesthesia.
During Surgery: What Happens in the Operating Room?
During nasal polyp removal surgery, patients are typically put under general anesthesia to ensure they are not conscious and do not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. In some instances, local anesthesia may be used, but this depends on the particular case and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Your surgeon will utilize an endoscope, which is a slender and flexible tube furnished with a camera and light on one end, to support in extracting the polyps during the operation.
This less invasive technique enables the surgeon to view the interior of your nasal cavities and sinuses without external incisions. The surgeon will use precise surgical instruments to gently take out the polyps and any other obstacles that are blocking your sinus passages. The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the polyps. Since it’s minimally intrusive, most patients can go home the same day.
After Surgery: What to Expect Immediately After Surgery.
After your surgery is finished, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room as you awaken. It’s typical to feel a little bit drowsy and have a stuffy nose, but these symptoms are normally temporary and harmless. Generally, no external sutures are required, since the operation is performed endoscopically through the nostrils. To help in preventing bleeding and facilitating the healing process, your surgeon may insert a soft, absorbent material, such as gauze or a dissolvable material, into your nasal cavity. Minor bleeding from the nose is typical in the first day or two, but it should diminish quickly. You’ll probably be given pain relievers to manage any discomfort, though many patients report very little pain following nasal polyp surgery.
Recovery: What to Anticipate Over the Next Several Weeks
The healing process after nasal polyp elimination surgery is usually uncomplicated, but adhering to your doctor’s post-operative guidelines is essential for a productive outcome. Here’s a summery of what to expect:
- Recovery: Relax and go easy on yourself for a couple of days after the surgery. Stay away from strenuous tasks, lifting heavy objects, or any activities that might elevate blood circulation to your head, which may result in bleeding.
- Nasal Care: You’ll be instructed on how to keep your nasal passages clean. This typically entails using saline sprays or rinses to keep the area hydrated and encourage healing. Refrain from blowing your nose too aggressively, as this can disturb the healing tissues.
- Post-Treatment Check-Ups: It’s common for your doctor to plan further appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure you’re healing as projected. At these visits, any remaining packing material will be eliminated, and an assessment of your nasal passages will be conducted to ensure they are healing properly.
- Getting Back to Routine: Generally, patients can return to their job or day-to-day routine within a week, but it’s important to pay attention to your physical limitations and allow yourself to heal at a comfortable pace. Complete recovery may take a few weeks, during which your breathing will continue to improve as swelling subsides.
Nasal polyp elimination surgery is an uncomplicated, minimally invasive procedure that can significantly enhance your breathing and overall comfort.
By understanding what to expect before, during, and after surgery, you’ll be better prepared and can focus on a hassle-free recovery. As usual, stick with your doctor’s post-op guidelines and go to all follow-up appointments to ensure the best results. Should any questions or concerns arise during your recovery, please don’t hesitate to contact us for support and direction.
Sources: https://www.healthline.com/health/nasal-polyp-surgery https://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/nasal-polyp-surgery