Septoplasty Pre-Operative Information

This page provides pre-operative and post-operative information for patients who have completed their consultations with Dr Roth and are preparing for septoplasty. It should be read alongside the written instructions provided at your pre-operative appointment. If anything here is unclear or conflicts with instructions you have been given directly, please contact the rooms.

Read the full septoplasty information page →

About Septoplasty

Septoplasty is surgical correction of a deviated or deformed nasal septum — the thin wall of cartilage and bone dividing the nasal cavity into two passages. The primary goal is to restore nasal airflow. The procedure is performed entirely through the nostrils in the vast majority of cases, leaving no external scars. It is performed under general anaesthesia as day surgery, although some patients may require an overnight stay.

Septoplasty is frequently combined with turbinoplasty (reduction of the inferior turbinates), sinus surgery (FESS), or rhinoplasty. Where both functional and cosmetic nasal goals are being addressed together, the combined procedure is called a septorhinoplasty. The specific combination planned for your surgery will have been discussed at your consultations.

Septoplasty may attract Medicare and private health insurance rebates where documented nasal airflow obstruction meets the applicable MBS item number criteria.

Before Surgery

Medications to Cease

Continue all regular prescribed medications unless specifically advised otherwise. A full list of medications to avoid is available on the Medications to Avoid page →

Smoking

Smoking — including cigarettes, vaping, and nicotine patches — impairs wound healing and increases the risk of post-operative bleeding and infection. Cessation for at least two weeks before surgery is required, and preferably longer.

Fasting

• No solid food or milk for at least six hours before your scheduled surgery time
• Clear fluids (water, black tea or coffee) are permitted up to two hours before — your specific instructions will be confirmed by the hospital the day before surgery

Practical Preparations

• Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home from hospital and stay with you on the first night
• Purchase prescribed medications in advance — prescriptions are issued at the pre-operative appointment
• Purchase a large-volume saline nasal irrigation kit (NeilMed Sinus Rinse or Flo Sinus Rinse) before surgery — nasal irrigation begins the day after surgery and is one of the most important parts of recovery
• Plan at least one full week away from work; two to three weeks off sport and heavy physical activity
• Prepare light meals in advance

What to Expect in Recovery

Important Post-Operative Instructions

• Begin nasal saline irrigation the day after surgery — twice daily using a large-volume delivery bottle (NeilMed Sinus Rinse). This is one of the most important steps in a good recovery
• Avoid nose blowing for 48 hours; after this, blow very gently
• If you need to sneeze, open the mouth widely to reduce pressure through the nose
• Avoid straining, heavy lifting, bending forward, and strenuous exercise for two weeks
• Avoid hot showers, hot meals, and alcohol — these increase blood flow to the nose and risk of bleeding
• Keep nasal splints moist if in place — do not allow them to dry out and crust
• Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed
• Use the prescribed nasal decongestant (Drixine) for no more than three days
• Take paracetamol regularly for pain — avoid ibuprofen and all anti-inflammatory medications after surgery

When to Seek Urgent Assistance

Septoplasty — Full Information → | Sinus and Nasal Surgery Post-Operative Care → | Contact the Rooms →