If you are due to undergo septum surgery, then taking the time to prepare can help ensure you feel fully confident as you embark on the procedure. Below, we have put together a list of different preparatory steps that are well worth considering if you are due to undergo this form of surgery in the future.

Discuss the procedure with your ear, nose and throat doctor

Knowledge is a powerful tool when you are due to undergo surgery, so spend some time discussing the procedure – and asking any questions you may have – before the big day arrives. Your ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor will be happy to explain exactly what will happen, what you should expect, and what the recovery will be like, so do feel free to ask for more information if you feel it will be beneficial to your peace of mind.

Take time off work

While septum surgery is predominantly performed as an outpatient procedure and is generally considered relatively simple, you will – in all likelihood – be somewhat uncomfortable in the immediate aftermath. It is therefore advisable to take a few days off from work so you will have time to recover.

Postpone any social events involving physical activity

You will be advised to avoid physical activity for around six weeks after the surgery, as physical activity can increase your blood pressure, which in turn can cause excess bleeding. If you have any social events that involve physical activity planned during this time, then it is best to postpone these until after the six-week mark.

Avoid certain medications

For two weeks prior to your surgery, avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. NSAIDs can increase the risk of excessive bleeding following the surgery. If you are taking supplements or herbal remedies, then it’s important to inform your doctor of this. Some herbal supplements can also increase bleeding; your doctor can advise you further on which you should avoid.

Plan your pain control

NSAIDs are also inadvisable in the immediate aftermath of the surgery for the same reason. As a result, you may want to plan pain control that doesn’t involve NSAIDs – your ENT doctor will be able to guide you further on the right choice for you.

Plan your wardrobe

In the first few days after the surgery, your nose is likely to be swollen and uncomfortable. As a result, you may find it useful to plan your wardrobe so that you are avoiding items that have to be pulled over your head to wear, such as sweatshirts or dresses. Plan a wardrobe of shirts that button at the front instead.

Examine your sleeping arrangements

It’s useful if you can elevate your head while sleeping, especially in the first few days after the surgery. To achieve this, it may be wise to invest in a few extra pillows or even buy a neck pillow of the type designed to allow people to sleep on flights. If you can adhere to all of the points above, you should be able to embark on your septum surgery fully confident you have taken the steps you need to ensure the smoothest possible process.