A deviated septum affects your breathing, sleep and quality of life. Septum surgery as an intervention option to manage symptoms is both practical and safe. You have undergone surgery, and it’s time for a quick recovery. What has to be done for the acceleration of the recovery process? This article is your guide and provides nine concrete tips towards optimal recovery after septum surgery.

What Causes A Deviated Septum?

A nasal septum separates the nose’s sides. A perfect septum should be centred or slightly off-centred, which is hard to notice. In case it’s misaligned, or you face symptoms of a deviated septum, it requires professional assistance like nasal septum perforation treatment.

Some common causes of deviated septum include: 

• Congenital: A deviated septum can be present from birth due to facial development in the womb.
• Injury: A bump to the nose, whether from a playful childhood tumble or a more unfortunate accident. 
• Surgery: Previous nasal surgeries performed by inexperienced surgeons can also result in deviated septum.

9 Tips to Follow for Quick Septum Surgery Recovery

• Adequate Rest

A swift recovery involves properly preparing for surgery and aftercare with precautions. Naturally, letting your body heal is one of the best ways to recover after surgery complications. If you work full-time or are a student, try to take some weekdays off from work so that your body can heal before indulging in harsh activities. Follow a good sleep pattern, as this time is essential for your body to redirect energy towards healing, so keep it as comfortable as possible.

• Follow your Doctor’s Instructions

Your surgeon will also give you postoperative guidelines according to the condition of the surgery. These standards should be followed strictly. Be it limitations to the diet and activities or wound care, you need your doctor’s instructions so that you do not contribute negatively towards recovery while at the same time reducing chances of setbacks.

• Use Prescribed Nasal Sprays

The most prevailing problem after septum operation is nasal congestion. To ease this, your doctor would prescribe some nasal sprays for decongestant purposes, reducing nose swelling. The use of these medications as prescribed by healthcare professionals is essential because they significantly contribute to normal air flow and prevent complications during recovery.

• Stay Hydrated

With proper intake of water, one can prevent dehydration since discomfort may arise and, at the same time, hamper recovery. Adequately hydrated with enough water prepares the patient to avoid dehydration, another comfort that might slow healing.

• Elevate your Head

Little head elevation while resting or sleeping can help manage swelling and improve circulation. Secure additional pillows or use a professionally designed pillow or supporter to lift your head and make sleep more comfortable, making evacuation more manageable.

• Avoid Blowing Your Nose

After the nasal septum perforation treatment, you must refrain from blowing your nose vigorously. Your nose requires adequate time to recover; thus, blowing your nose can interfere with the recovery process, which might result in more complications. If you need to clear your nasal passages, consider using a gentle saline nasal spray or follow your doctor’s guidance on proper techniques.

• Use Cold Compresses

Cold compresses on the surgery region are recommended for pain relief and effective swelling reduction. Cold compress a clean cloth or one wrapped around in a thin towel and apply it over the affected area for a few minutes if your surgeon recommends. This primary yet effective method contributes to a more pleasant recovery process.

• Take Pain Medication as Directed

Pain is also a standard procedure during the recovery phase after septum surgery. Your doctor will probably prescribe pain medication to control the pain. However, per the manufacturer’s instructions, it is essential to be strictly adhered to so that pain can never catch up with him/ her, thus enhancing an easy recovery. If you have doubts or experience unpredicted adverse reactions, notify your healthcare professional immediately.

• Quit Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and drinking can slow down healing, thus increasing the likelihood of complications. The two substances impair the immune system, delay tissue healing and may make infections inevitable. Abstinence from smoking and drinking alcohol is recommended to be observed during the recovery period for the facilitation of great healing.