Endoscopic sinus surgery is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure, and most patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort.
Post-Surgery Pain
The level of pain you experience after endoscopic sinus surgery will depend on several factors, including:
- The complexity of the surgery: More complex procedures may result in more pain.
- Your individual pain tolerance: Some people are more sensitive to pain than others.
- How well you manage pain: Taking pain medication as prescribed can help manage discomfort.
Managing Pain
Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to manage pain after surgery. This may include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce pain.
- Prescription pain medication: Your surgeon may prescribe stronger pain medication if needed.
- Cold compresses: Applying cold compresses to your face can help reduce swelling and pain.
Recovery
Most people recover from endoscopic sinus surgery within a week or two. During this time, you may experience:
- Nasal congestion: This is common and usually improves within a few days.
- Swelling: Your face may be swollen for a few days after surgery.
- Bleeding: Some light bleeding from your nose is normal.
- Pain: You may experience mild to moderate pain, which can be managed with pain medication.
It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully and contact them if you have any concerns about your recovery.
