What to Expect After Sinus Surgery | SCENT Houston ENT Specialists

By: Dr Madeleine Herman, MD

If you’re preparing for sinus surgery—whether to relieve chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or improve breathing—knowing what to expect during recovery can make the healing process smoother and less stressful.

At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, our team walks each patient through every step of the recovery process to ensure you heal safely and comfortably.

Here’s a clear guide to what to expect after sinus surgery, from the first 24 hours through the weeks ahead.

How Long Is Sinus Surgery Recovery?

While individual recovery time varies, most patients feel back to normal within 1–2 weeks. Many return to work or school within 3–5 days, depending on the type of sinus surgery performed and their overall health.

Tip: The first few days are the most uncomfortable, but with the right post-op care, healing typically progresses quickly.

Common Symptoms After Sinus Surgery

You can expect some temporary side effects after sinus surgery, including:

• Nasal congestion or stuffiness

• Mild to moderate nasal drainage (may be bloody or clear)

• Facial pressure or dull headache

• Fatigue for a few days

• Crusting or dryness inside the nose

• Temporary changes in smell or taste

These symptoms are normal and part of the healing process as your sinuses adjust to improved airflow and drainage.

What You Should Not Experience

Call your ENT right away if you experience:

• High fever (over 101.5°F)

• Persistent, severe pain not controlled with medication

• Heavy, uncontrolled nosebleeds

• Vision changes or eye swelling

  
  

Post-Surgery Do’s and Don’ts

✅ What to Do:

• Rest: Take it easy for the first few days and listen to your body

• Use saline nasal rinses: Your doctor will recommend rinsing with a saline solution several times a day to keep your sinuses clean and moist

• Take medications as directed: This may include antibiotics or pain relievers

• Attend all follow-up visits: These are important for checking healing and removing crusts or mucus buildup

• Sleep with your head elevated: Use extra pillows to reduce swelling and drainage

❌ What to Avoid:

• Blowing your nose for at least 1 week

• Heavy lifting, bending over, or strenuous exercise

• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke

  
  

How SCENT Houston Supports Your Recovery

At SCENT Houston, our ENT surgeons are with you every step of the way—from pre-op planning to post-op care. We provide:

• Clear written instructions

• Personalized follow-up visits

• Image-guided surgery options for safer, more precise results

  
  

We also offer minimally invasive sinus procedures, which often mean faster recovery and less downtime.

When Will You Feel the Benefits?

Many patients begin to notice improved breathing, reduced congestion, and fewer sinus infections within 2–3 weeks after surgery. Full healing and maximum results are usually seen around 6–8 weeks post-op.

Get Long-Term Sinus Relief in Houston

Sinus surgery can be life-changing—offering relief from years of discomfort, congestion, and missed days of work or school. At SCENT Houston, we’re proud to help patients take that step toward lasting relief.

📞 Schedule your consultation today with Houston’s trusted sinus specialists, and let us guide you toward better breathing and better living.

📍 Proudly serving patients in Houston, Bellaire, West University, Memorial, River Oaks, and nearby communities.