If you had a sinus grafting procedure performed, the general postoperative instructions still apply, but several additional points should be emphasized:
- Do not blow your nose.
- If you must sneeze, do so with your mouth open to avoid any unnecessary pressure on the sinus area.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products. Smoking greatly inhibits healing, especially in the sinus graft.
- Do not take liquids in through a straw.
- Do not lift or pull up on your lip to look at the stitches: this may actually create damage and tear stitches.
- Take your antibiotics as directed and until finished.
- You may have some bleeding from the nose. This is not uncommon and should pass quickly.
- You may be aware of small granules in your mouth for the next few days. This is not unusual because your graft is mainly made of particles.
- If you feel congested, you may need to use antihistamines or decongestants. You may use over-the-county products such as Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec or Sudafed. It is also suggested that you avoid nasal sprays unless they are saline (Ocean Mist). Most of the time, patients do fine without any nasal sprays, antihistamines, or decongestants.
For other important surgical instructions, click here.
