Please note that your operation involved a potential or actual opening into your maxillary sinus (Antrum).
After this type of operation, it is possible for the wound to break down and for you to end up with something called an oro-antral fistula. This is a persisting hole between the sinus and mouth which allows fluid into the sinus and up through the nose. If this happens, it may require a second operation some months later to repair the opening.
Instructions:
- Avoid hard nose blowing.
If you need to sneeze, do not stifle it by covering your nose—let it happen and direct the force through your mouth.
Contact the office or Dr Huang after hours if you develop facial swelling overnight. - Do not smoke.
This includes cigarettes, roll-your-owns, or recreational drugs. Smoking impairs wound healing and increases infection risk. - Avoid flying, swimming, or diving for at least 2 weeks after your operation.
Pressure changes and fluid levels can cause the wound to remain open and lead to infection. - Mild bleeding and swelling are normal.
You may see blood on your handkerchief when blowing your nose lightly during the first week. Swelling or even a black eye can also occur. Brush gently near the area where the sinus was operated on. - Use nasal spray (e.g., Otrivine or Drixine) from a pharmacy:
- Two puffs in each nostril, twice daily for 5 days after the operation.
- The sinus area will take longer to heal than the mouth—3 to 4 weeks to fully settle.
