Radio Frequency Volume Reduction for the Nose: What to Expect at Home

Your Recovery

You had radio frequency volume reduction for the nose. To do this procedure, the doctor numbed the area and put a needle in your nose. A small electric current went through the needle to heat and shrink the tissue.

Many people have no pain right after the procedure, but you may have a sore and stuffy nose for about 1 week. When there is pain, it is usually minor and requires no pain medicine. You can take medicine if the pain is very bad. Ask your doctor which medicine is best for you.

Over the next 3 to 6 weeks, your nose will heal and you should begin to have better airflow. It may take up to 8 weeks for the nose to heal.

Most people can go back to work or their normal routine the next day.

This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to get better as quickly as possible.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Activity

• Rest when you feel tired. Getting enough sleep will help you recover. Sleep with your head propped up by 3 or 4 pillows.
• Most people are able to return to work or their normal routine the next day.

Diet

• You can eat your normal diet.

Medicines

• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.

Other instructions

• Apply petroleum jelly and use saline nasal sprays to the inside of your nose several times a day after your procedure. This will help keep the area moist and help with healing.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have trouble breathing.
• You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain.
  • A fever.
• You are bleeding.

Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You are not getting better as expected.