Instead of packing, we utilize a little bit of dissolving gel. This is not at all uncomfortable and just goes away on its own. The patient is given an instruction sheet to care for their sinuses and then will be asked to return in two to three weeks for a repeat look with the nasal endoscopes. Follow-up is then individually tailored to the needs of the patient.
Most patients can expect no restrictions on their diet or activity and can return to work as soon as they feel up to it. In general, hypertonic saline irrigations should continue indefinitely and nasal steroid spray use should continue. Good results require not only good surgical techniques, but also a cooperative effort between the patient and physician throughout the healing process. It is equally important for patients to follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions.