After the Surgery
Controlling Pain and Discomfort
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Alternate between Ibuprofen (Motrin / Advil) and Tylenol for the first 2-3 days, use narcotics only if needed.
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DO NOT JUST TAKE NARCOTICS.
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Follow the directions on the label (do not take more than the recommended dose). Pain control is mainly needed for the first 3-5 days after surgery, there after as needed
Nasal Swelling/Bruising
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Expect nasal swelling and sometimes bruising.
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The swelling is worst the first 3 days after surgery, and by the end of the week it is significantly less.
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Use wash cloths soaked in ice water or frozen 'peas' or any commercially available product especially the early days after surgery.
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Sleep with an extra pillow or two. The swelling is worse in the morning with lying down.
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Being up and active will help the swelling to come down faster.
Antibiotics
Follow the directions on the antibiotics. If you miss a dose do not double it. If your child develops diarrhea, please discontinue the antibiotics.
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First few days stick to more liquids, and then begin slowly after the surgery to minimize nausea and to easily clean the mouth after eating.
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Encourage liquids after surgery as much as possible to avoid dehydration. This will help the tissues to heal. After a day or so, start with a soft diet (Jello, puddings, soups to pasta), and continue the soft diet for the first 2 weeks after surgery thereafter there is no restriction.
General Care
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Wash and bathe normally the day after surgery.
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There are no restrictions in daily activities or positioning in sleeping, gradually increase every day. Most of the children are recovered by 1 week after surgery.
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No Contact sports should be avoided for 6 weeks after surgery.
Nasal Care
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Continue the salt water (saline) nasal spray after surgery for at least 6 months. Use a humidifier or vaporizer. This will help with the nasal passageways.
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Expect occasional nasal bleeding and crusting may continue from weeks to months after surgery.
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You can use a hydrogen-peroxide mixed with water (equal parts of each) and a q-tip to clean the blood and crusts that occur at the nasal opening.
Follow Up Appointment with the Surgeon
Appointment 2-4 weeks after surgery
Appointment 6 months after surgery
Appointment 12 months after surgery