Your plastic surgeon Dr. Monica Tadros, M.D., may ask you to stop taking certain medications two weeks before surgery. These medications may include aspirin (Bufferin), ibuprofen (Advil), and other blood thinners. This is done to reduce your risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure. Be sure to tell your ENT specialist if you’re allergic to certain medications or if you have a history of bleeding problems.
Dr. Tadros will also ask you to stop smoking two weeks before your septoplasty. She will explain the whole procedure before surgery and will answer any questions you may have. You should understand all the risks and benefits before your surgery date.
In some cases, people have a septoplasty under local anesthesia, which numbs the area to prevent pain. However, most people have surgery under general anesthesia, which means they’re asleep during the procedure. Don’t eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure if you’re going to be under general anesthesia.
Bring a family member or friend who can drive you home after the septoplasty. General anesthesia may make you drowsy after the procedure. You shouldn’t drive until the effects have fully worn off. Your doctor might take pictures of your nose before septoplasty surgery in New Jersey and New York City. Comparing photos from before and after the procedure can help you see how your nose has changed.