Care at Home after Nasal Fracture

How You Might Feel After Your Operation

• You may feel slightly nauseated after surgery
• The anaesthetic may cause you to feel dizzy or sleepy for 24 hours
• You may have a slight temperature for 2 days
• You can expect some facial bruising or swelling.
• You may have a headache.
• You may feel congested.

• You will have a small dressing on the bridge of your nose and possibly some packing inside your nostrils.
• The packing and dressing will be removed at your follow-up appointment, if needed.
• Keep your dressing dry.

Pain and Medication

• Take the pain medication that is prescribed by your surgeon if you have discomfort.
• Follow your surgeon’s advice on resuming your routine medications
• Ice packs can be applied for 15 minutes out of every hour to decrease swelling, bruising and pain.
• Laxatives and stool softeners can be used to prevent straining, which could cause a nosebleed.
  

Nutrition

• Eat light foods for the first day, such as tea, toast, soup and Jello®
• If diabetic, follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet and medication

Activity and Exercise

• For 24 hrs after surgery do not drive, operate heavy equipment, drink alcohol, smoke or make important decisions
• Arrange for someone to be with you the first night at home
• To prevent bleeding avoid blowing your nose, forceful coughing, bending or lifting. Keep your mouth open when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid any activity that could bump your nose.
• Elevate the head of your bed.
• Consult with your surgeon about resuming normal activities and returning to work.

Follow-Up Care

• Call your surgeon for a follow-up appointment

You need to call your doctor if you have:

• A fever that persists beyond 2 days
• Sudden severe pain, swelling or bleeding from your nose.