Exercise after septoplasty

Professor Ash Mosahebi

It is 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.

Why can't you exercise after septoplasty?

You can get trouble breathing

Post-surgery, the nasal passages are healing, and engaging in exercise can make breathing difficult. Physical activity increases the demand for oxygen, forcing you to breathe more deeply and rapidly, which can be uncomfortable and strain the healing tissues.

Risk of nosebleed

Exercise elevates your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to nosebleeds. The increased blood flow to the nasal area can cause the delicate, healing blood vessels to rupture, resulting in bleeding and potentially prolonging the recovery process.

Inflammation

Physical exertion can exacerbate inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. This can lead to increased discomfort and potentially compromise the surgical results. It's essential to allow the initial swelling to subside before resuming any physical activities.

When can you start exercising again?

In most cases, patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks following septoplasty. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on the individual case and the surgeon's recommendations. You can start with daily walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity.

Exercising modestly and progressively increasing the length and intensity monthly is also recommended. But remember that aerobic exercise can induce discomfort during the early phases of septoplasty recovery. It may simply cause you to breathe more forcefully. Always consult your surgeon before resuming any exercise regimen.

Explore your options with Adoreal

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