Understanding Septoplasty Surgery
Septoplasty surgery is performed to straighten the nasal bone and cartilage between the nostrils, also known as the nasal septum. You may also recognize septoplasty as a procedure to correct a deviated septum, which is often characterized by symptoms like nasal congestion. Many individuals with deviated septums often delay surgery, yet an untreated deviated septum could lead to nasal blockage and sinus problems, emphasizing the importance of addressing the condition promptly.
Septoplasty is typically a less complex procedure than other nasal surgeries, involving minimal incisions. Therefore, septoplasty recovery tends to be more comfortable than rhinoplasty (nose job) recovery. Despite this, there are still some restrictions during the recovery from correcting a deviated septum surgery. For instance, engaging in strenuous physical activities such as exercising is one of them. Nasal spray may be recommended to alleviate nasal congestion and promote healing in the nasal passages.
Why Can’t I Exercise during Septoplasty Recovery?
It is generally recommended that patients avoid exercise and other strenuous physical activities for a certain period after septoplasty surgery. This is because exercising too soon after surgery can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Furthermore, it can cause bleeding and swelling in the nasal area. Additionally, any physical strain or jarring movements could potentially disrupt the healing process and cause complications.
The length of time that patients are advised to avoid exercise can vary depending on the individual case and the surgeon’s instructions. However, we typically recommend our patients to avoid exercise for at least one to two weeks following surgery. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions regarding physical activity, including refraining from blowing your nose, to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
You Might Have Trouble Breathing
Engaging in aerobic exercise can cause discomfort during the early stages of septoplasty recovery. It can simply make you breathe harder. Some patients may be able to breathe normally after the procedure. Whereas many experience partial or complete nasal obstruction for up to two weeks.
This blocked breathing can make it challenging to maintain your usual exercise routine. Particularly if it involves activities like swimming that require unobstructed breathing.
High Risk of Nosebleed
After septoplasty, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise for up to five weeks to minimize the risk of nosebleeds. During activities that raise your blood pressure, such as running or weightlifting, the surgical site may not be completely healed. It would make you more susceptible to bleeding.
To promote septoplasty recovery time, ClinicExpert doctors recommend avoiding lifting anything over 20 pounds for at least 10 days after surgery. It’s also important to limit activities that require you to bend or lower your head. Keep in mind that they can increase the risk of nosebleeds. This includes many household chores and positional exercises.
If you experience an unresolved nosebleed after surgery, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
The Dangers of Working Out Too Much: Inflammation and Slow Recovery
During exercise, an increase in blood pressure can not only trigger nosebleeds but also exacerbate swelling at the surgical site following septoplasty. Swelling is a natural part of the healing process, but intense physical activity can prolong the recovery period by worsening inflammation.
It’s important to avoid contact sports and other activities that increase the risk of trauma to the nose, as blunt force could displace the re-positioned septum and necessitate further surgery, as per ClinicExpert Hospital’s advice. Protecting the nose during the healing process is crucial to prevent complications and ensure a successful outcome.
When It’s Safe to Resume Physical Activity
The timing of when it’s safe to resume physical activity after septoplasty can vary depending on the individual case and the surgeon’s instructions. However, in general, patients need to wait at least one to two weeks after surgery before engaging in any physical activity or exercise.
After this initial recovery period, patients may gradually resume physical activity as they feel comfortable, with the guidance of their surgeon. It’s important to avoid any activities that may cause trauma or strain to the nose, such as contact sports, for several weeks after surgery. Resuming physical activity too soon can increase the risk of complications and delay the recovery time after septoplasty.
Start with Light Exercises
Recovery time after septoplasty and turbinate reduction can vary significantly depending on the individual case. While some patients may be able to resume light exercise within a week of surgery, others may need to wait for two weeks or longer before engaging in physical activity.
It’s important to schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to assess the healing progress of your septum and nasal airway, and to ask for advice on when it’s safe to resume your regular activities. To avoid complications and promote healing, we recommend to start with low-intensity exercise and gradually increase the duration and intensity over time.
Benefits of Septoplasty for Fitness
Like many people, fitness enthusiasts can also benefit greatly from getting a septoplasty operation done. Some of these advantages are as follows:
- Improved breathing: The impact of correct breathing is undeniable in your fitness journey. Fixing a deviated septum can improve your breathing, and help you work out more efficiently.
- Enhanced stamina: Being able to breathe without any obstructions can help enhance your stamina greatly, and in turn, reduce fatigue. You can go for longer and more intense workouts easily.
- Better sleep quality: You will be surprised about how well you’ll sleep after getting septoplasty done. You’ll feel more refreshed, energized, and restful. Your muscles will recover more quickly, enhancing your fitness journey.
Expert Advice on Septoplasty Recovery
Expert advice on septoplasty recovery includes guidance on avoiding strenuous physical activities, managing discomfort, and promoting healing. Following your surgeon’s post-operative guidelines, such as avoiding strenuous activities, managing swelling, and taking prescribed pain medications, can contribute to a smoother healing process.
Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment
Recovering from septoplasty requires careful post-operative care, and seeking expert advice can significantly enhance the healing process. After a septoplasty procedure, it is crucial to follow your surgeon’s specific instructions to ensure a safe and successful recovery. Additionally, scheduling follow-up appointments with your surgeon allows them to assess the progress of your healing and provide personalized recommendations for resuming normal activities. By heeding expert advice and being diligent in your recovery, you can optimize the results of your septoplasty and enjoy improved breathing and overall well-being.
Promoting a Successful Recovery
Adequate rest, maintaining proper nasal hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments are also vital steps in ensuring a successful recovery. Additionally, a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support the body’s healing mechanisms. By being proactive and committed to your recovery, you increase the likelihood of a successful septoplasty outcome and a healthier, more comfortable future.
Contact Our Medical Consultants
If you have more questions about septoplasty procedure and recovery, don’t hesitate to contact our medical consultants. You can reach us 24/7 via WhatsApp.