Having sinus surgery can be a bit intimidating. You want to make sure you do everything you can to prepare properly for the procedure and set yourself up for the best possible outcome. While there are things you should do before sinus surgery, there are also some things you should avoid.
Don’t skip medications
It’s important not to skip any regular medications before your sinus surgery unless your doctor specifically instructs you to. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies. Skipping medications can lead to complications during or after surgery.
Be sure to discuss all medications and supplements you take with your surgeon ahead of time. They may recommend adjusting dosages or holding certain medications for a period before and after the procedure.
Don’t drink alcohol
Consuming alcohol in the days leading up to your sinus surgery is not recommended. Alcohol can interact with anesthesia and certain pain medications, increasing the risks of excessive bleeding and other complications.
Most surgeons recommend avoiding all alcohol for at least 48 hours prior to surgery. Some may even advise stopping alcohol consumption up to two weeks before the procedure depending on your medical history.
Don’t smoke
Smoking is never recommended, but it’s especially important to avoid smoking before and after sinus surgery. Smoking can significantly slow healing and increase the risk of post-operative complications like infections.
If at all possible, stop smoking at least two weeks prior to your sinus surgery. This allows some of the negative effects of smoking to improve before your procedure. Completely quitting smoking weeks to months before surgery is ideal.
Don’t eat solid foods after the cut-off time
Your surgeon will provide instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before your sinus surgery. This is to make sure your stomach is completely empty when you go under anesthesia. Follow these instructions precisely.
Eating solid foods too close to surgery can increase the risk of inhaling food or liquid into your lungs while under anesthesia. This can cause serious complications like pneumonia.
You’ll need to stop eating solid foods at least 8 hours prior to your scheduled surgery time. Clear liquids may be permitted up to 2 hours beforehand. Be sure to confirm the specific cut-off times with your surgical team.
Don’t wear cosmetics
Leave the makeup, perfumes, hair products, and other cosmetics at home on the day of your sinus surgery. These products can interact with the sterilized surgical environment and increase infection risks.
Come to the hospital or surgery center with a freshly cleansed, makeup-free face. Remove nail polish and false nails/lashes as well. Just focus on personal hygiene without any unnecessary products.
Don’t wear contacts
It’s best to stick to wearing eyeglasses on the day of your sinus surgery. Leave your contact lenses at home.
Contacts can sometimes get stuck in the eye during administration of anesthesia and cause damage. Eyeglasses are the safer option.
If you can’t see without contacts, discuss options with your surgical team in advance. They may recommend bringing a glasses case and supply of rewetting drops to use after surgery.
Don’t take OTC medications without approval
Avoid taking any over-the-counter (OTC) medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antihistamines, decongestants, or herbal supplements within 1-2 weeks of surgery. Even OTCs can complicate anesthesia or increase bleeding risks.
The only exception is using saline nasal spray or drops to keep nasal passages moisturized leading up to surgery. But double check with your doctor even about saline use.
Get approval from your surgeon before taking anything new, even everyday OTC medications and supplements you normally take.
Don’t skip nasal irrigation
Regular nasal irrigation using a saline rinse is important after sinus surgery to keep passages clean. Don’t skip prescribed nasal rinses.
Your doctor will provide guidance on how often to rinse, the proper technique, and how long to continue post-surgery nasal irrigation. Following these directions is vital for proper healing.
Make sure to purchase sufficient saline rinse supplies in advance so you don’t run out. Continue diligent nasal irrigation for as long as your surgeon recommends to support recovery.
Don’t overexert yourself
It’s important to take it easy in the days leading up to surgery to conserve your energy. Don’t overschedule, overcommit, or overexert yourself.
Be sure to arrange time off work for your recovery period. Hold off on any big physical tasks or strenuous activities. Get plenty of rest.
You’ll need your strength and stamina to heal after surgery. Avoid depletion by not pushing yourself too hard beforehand.
Don’t ignore surgery instructions
Closely follow all instructions provided by your surgeon and surgical team. This includes preparation guidelines, medication instructions, arrival time, fasting requirements, and more.
Write down instructions, set reminders if needed, and review frequently so you understand exactly what to do and not do before your procedure.
Following instructions to the letter is crucial for minimizing risks like bleeding, infection, and complications under anesthesia.
Don’t neglect transportation arrangements
Due to anesthesia effects, you will need transportation home from the hospital or surgery center and assistance during initial recovery. Make these arrangements well in advance.
Recruit a trusted friend, partner, or family member to be your transportation and look after you in the first 24 hours post-surgery. Planning ahead ensures you’ll have the needed support.
Don’t miss pre-operative testing
Certain pre-operative tests may be required in advance of your sinus surgery, such as blood work, medical exam, or imaging scans. Ensure you undergo all testing as directed and within the specified timeframe.
Missing pre-op testing requirements can result in delaying your surgery date. Complete all steps necessary to proceed as scheduled.
Don’t avoid pre-surgical clearance requirements
Beyond testing, you may need clearance and sign-off from your primary doctor or specialists like a cardiologist before surgery. Don’t skip any required pre-surgical medical clearances.
These clearance appointments ensure it is safe for you to proceed with elective sinus surgery given your health profile and risk factors. They are a mandatory part of prepping.
Conclusion
Preparing properly for sinus surgery involves being proactive with certain healthcare steps while avoiding interference from things like smoking, alcohol, medications, overexertion, and skipped instructions. Keep your surgeon’s pre-operative directions front and center for a safe procedure and smooth recovery.
Stick to the plan outlined by your surgical team. Show up on time fully prepped and with transportation arranged. Take care of your body in the weeks before surgery. Following all preparation guidelines is key to achieving the best results.
| What to Do Before Sinus Surgery | What Not to Do Before Sinus Surgery |
|---|---|
| Follow your surgeon’s pre-op instructions | Skip medications without your doctor’s approval |
| Complete required medical tests and clearances | Drink alcohol in the days before surgery |
| Arrange transportation for surgery day | Smoke or use tobacco products |
| Stop eating solid foods 8+ hours before surgery | Eat solid foods after the cut-off time specified by your surgeon |
| Continue irrigating nasal passages with saline | Wear cosmetics, perfumes, false lashes, etc |
| Rest and take it easy before surgery | Wear contact lenses instead of eyeglasses |
| Take OTC medications without surgeon approval | |
| Skip prescribed nasal irrigation |
Getting ready for sinus surgery involves dos and don’ts for the weeks beforehand. Follow your doctor’s orders explicitly, complete all required health testing, stop risky habits like smoking and drinking, and take time to rest. Avoid medications, cosmetics, contacts, alcohol and food before your procedure. Diligent preparation sets you up for the best results.
Your doctor and care team want to ensure your sinus surgery is as smooth and successful as possible. Follow instructions, communicate concerns, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Being an engaged, proactive patient is key.
The more you can do to optimize your health beforehand, avoid risks factors, and cooperate fully with medical guidance, the better your surgical experience will be. Trust your providers and take care of yourself leading up to your procedure date.
Sinus surgery can significantly improve chronic sinusitis symptoms and quality of life when done properly. But preparation is a big part of success. Avoid the pre-surgical missteps outlined here. Instead, focus on following your doctor’s orders every step of the way for the best outcome.
With meticulous preparation and self-care, sinus surgery can get you back to breathing, sleeping and living comfortably again. Stick to the plan and you’ll be in the best position to achieve optimal relief. Stay focused on cooperating fully with your surgical team’s directions.
Before you know it, surgery day will arrive and you’ll be ready. Trust the process and do your part to prep mindfully. The payoff will be getting through surgery smoothly and starting down the road to long-term sinus relief. Diligent preparation now means enjoying the benefits for years to come.
