This guide will help you get ready for your nasal cavity and paranasal sinus surgery at MSK. It will also help you understand what to expect during your recovery.
Use this guide as a source of information in the days leading up to your surgery. Bring it with you every time you come to MSK, including the day of your surgery. You and your healthcare team will refer to it throughout your care.
About your surgery
Your nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses
Your nasal cavity is a large, air-filled space above and behind your nose, in the middle of your face. It has 2 openings, called the nostrils, that warm and moisturize the air you breathe in.
Inside your nasal cavity, you have 4 types of paranasal sinuses, usually called sinuses (see Figure 1). Your sinuses are a group of hollow, air-filled spaces that surround your nasal cavity. These include:
- Frontal sinuses, which are above your eyes.
- Ethmoid sinuses, which are between your eyes.
- Sphenoid sinuses, which are deep in your nasal cavity, behind your ethmoid sinuses.
- Maxillary sinuses, which are on the sides of your nose.
Your nasal cavity and sinuses are covered with a layer of cells that make mucus and warm the air you breathe. They also affect how your voice sounds when you speak.
Figure 1. Your paranasal sinuses
Nasal cavity and sinus surgery
Nasal cavity and sinus tumors are usually treated with surgery. The goal of the surgery is to remove the whole tumor and a small amount of normal tissue around it.
Your nasal cavity and sinuses are small areas that have many muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and other important structures. If any of these other structures need to be removed during your surgery, it can affect how you look and how you perform basic functions. Therefore, another goal of surgery is to help you look the same and be able to breathe, chew, talk, and swallow without difficulty after your surgery.
You’ll have many different providers working together before, during, and after your surgery. Depending on your surgery, your treatment team may include:
- Head and neck surgeon, plastic reconstructive surgeon, and neurosurgeon
- Radiation oncologist
- Medical oncologist
- Dentist
- Nurses
- Speech and swallowing therapist
- Clinical dietitian nutritionists
- Case managers
- Social workers
Your healthcare provider will talk with you about which surgery you’re having. The type of surgery depends on the where the tumors are, how big they are, and what other structures are involved. Here are descriptions of the different types of surgeries.
Types of nasal cavity surgery
- Some nasal cavity tumors can be removed with a surgery called wide local excision. This surgery removes the tumor and a small amount of normal tissue around it.
- Tumors that are on your nasal turbinates (long, thin bones on the inside walls of your nose) can be removed by a surgery called medial maxillectomy.
- Tumors that involve the tissue on the outside of your nose may be removed by removing part of your nose or your entire nose.
Types of sinus surgery
- Tumors that are small, noncancerous (not cancer), and involve only your ethmoid sinuses are removed with a surgery called external ethmoidectomy.
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Tumors that have grown into your maxillary sinus can be removed by a surgery called maxillectomy. The extent of the surgery depends on where the tumor is and if it involves nearby tissue and structures. During a maxillectomy, the following things may be partly or completely removed:
- Bone around your maxillary sinus
- Bone of your hard palate (roof of your mouth)
- Upper teeth on one side of your mouth
- Part of or your entire orbit (eye socket)
- Part of your cheekbone
- Part of the bony part of your upper nose
If part of your hard palate is removed, there may be an open connection between your nasal cavity and your oral cavity (mouth). Your dental surgeon will take impressions (make a mold of your upper mouth) before and the day of your surgery. They’ll put a temporary surgical obturator (plate) to close the opening in your palate during your surgery. This will help you speak and eat after surgery.
You’ll be discharged from the hospital with the temporary surgical obturator in place. About 2 weeks after your surgery, you’ll have an appointment with your dental surgeon to remove the surgical obturator. During this appointment, your dental surgeon will fit a removable obturator to your mouth. They’ll also give you instructions for cleaning and taking care of the obturator. You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with your dental surgeon to check the obturator and adjust the fit if needed.
- Tumors in your ethmoid, frontal, or sphenoid sinuses are removed by a surgery called craniofacial resection. This surgery involves removing the tumor through incisions (surgical cuts) on your face and skull. By accessing the tumor from two directions, your surgeons have a better chance of removing the entire tumor. This also helps decrease possible damage to your brain, nerves, and other major structures. You’ll have a head and neck surgeon, plastic surgeon, and neurosurgeon working together on your surgical team.
Endoscopic surgery
This surgery uses endoscopes (thin, flexible, lighted tubes) that are put into your nose to reach your nasal cavity and sinuses. This surgery is used for tumors that are small and less involved with surrounding structures. It may also be used to treat sinus diseases that aren’t cancer.
Lymph node removal
Nasal cavity and sinus tumors sometimes spread to lymph nodes in your neck. Lymph nodes are removed through a surgery called neck dissection. Your surgeon will see if you need a neck dissection based on a medical exam and a computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
If you have lymph nodes removed, you’ll have a drainage tube in place while you’re in the hospital. Your nurses will keep track of the amount of drainage. Once the drainage is less than 20 to 30 milliliters (about ½ ounce) in 24 hours, the drain will be removed. This is usually 3 to 5 days after your surgery.
Before your surgery
This section will help you get ready for your surgery. Read it when your surgery is scheduled. Refer to it as your surgery gets closer. It has important information about what to do to get ready.
As you read this section, write down questions to ask your healthcare provider.
Getting ready for your surgery
You and your care team will work together to get ready for your surgery. Help us keep you safe by telling us if any of these things apply to you, even if you’re not sure.
Always be sure your healthcare providers know all the medicines and supplements you’re taking.
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I take an anticoagulant (blood thinner), such as:
- Aspirin
- Heparin
- Warfarin (Jantoven®, Coumadin®)
- Clopidogrel (Plavix®)
- Enoxaparin (Lovenox®)
- Dabigatran (Pradaxa®)
- Apixaban (Eliquis®)
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto®)
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I take an SGLT2 inhibitor, such as:
- Canagliflozin (Invokana®)
- Dapagliflozin (Farxiga®)
- Empagliflozin (Jardiance®)
- Ertugliflozin (Steglatro®)
- I take any prescription medicines, including patches and creams. A prescription medicine is one you can only get with a prescription from a healthcare provider.
- I take any over-the-counter medicines, including patches and creams. An over-the-counter medicine is one you can buy without a prescription.
- I take any dietary supplements, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, or natural or home remedies.
- I have a pacemaker, automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD), or other heart device.
- I have sleep apnea.
- I have had a problem with anesthesia (A-nes-THEE-zhuh) in the past. Anesthesia is medicine to make you sleep during a surgery or procedure.
- I’m allergic to certain medicines or materials, including latex.
- I’m not willing to receive a blood transfusion.
- I drink alcohol.
- I smoke or use an electronic smoking device, such as a vape pen or e-cigarette.
- I use recreational drugs, such as marijuana.
About drinking alcohol
It’s important to talk with your healthcare providers about how much alcohol you drink. This will help us plan your care.
If you drink alcohol regularly, you may be at risk for problems during and after your surgery. These include bleeding, infections, heart problems, and a longer hospital stay.
If you drink alcohol regularly and stop suddenly, it can cause seizures, delirium, and death. If we know you’re at risk for these problems, we can prescribe medicine to help prevent them.
Here are things you can do before your surgery to keep from having problems.
- Be honest with your healthcare providers about how much alcohol you drink.
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Try to stop drinking alcohol once your surgery is planned. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you:
- Get a headache.
- Feel nauseous (like you’re going to throw up).
- Feel more anxious (nervous or worried) than usual.
- Cannot sleep.
These are early signs of alcohol withdrawal and can be treated.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you cannot stop drinking.
- Ask your healthcare provider questions about drinking and surgery. All your medical information will be kept private, as always.
About smoking
If you smoke, you can have breathing problems when you have surgery. Stopping for even a few days before your surgery can help.
Your healthcare provider will refer you to our Tobacco Treatment Program if you smoke. You can also reach the program by calling 212-610-0507.
About sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a common breathing problem. If you have sleep apnea, you stop breathing for short lengths of time while you’re asleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). With OSA, your airway becomes fully blocked during sleep.
OSA can cause serious problems during and after surgery. Tell us if you have or think you might have sleep apnea. If you use a breathing device, such as a CPAP machine, bring it on the day of your surgery.
Using MyMSK
MyMSK (my.mskcc.org) is your MSK patient portal. You can use it to send and read messages from your care team, view your test results, see your appointment dates and times, and more. You can also invite your caregiver to make their own account so they can see information about your care.
If you do not have a MyMSK account, you can sign up at my.mskcc.org. You can get an enrollment ID by calling 646-227-2593 or your doctor’s office.
Watch How to Enroll in MyMSK: Memorial Sloan Kettering's Patient Portal to learn more. You can also contact the MyMSK Help Desk by emailing [email protected] or calling 800-248-0593.
Within 30 days of your surgery
Presurgical testing (PST)
You’ll have a PST appointment before your surgery. You’ll get a reminder from your surgeon’s office with the appointment date, time, and location. Visit www.msk.org/parking for parking information and directions to all MSK locations.
You can eat and take your usual medicines the day of your PST appointment.
It’s helpful to bring these things to your appointment:
- A list of all the medicines you’re taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, patches, and creams.
- Results of any medical tests done outside of MSK in the past year, if you have them. Examples include results from a cardiac stress test, echocardiogram, or carotid doppler study.
- The names and telephone numbers of your healthcare providers.
You’ll meet with an advance practice provider (APP) during your PST appointment. They work closely with MSK’s anesthesiology (A-nes-THEE-zee-AH-loh-jee) staff. These are doctors with special training in using anesthesia during a surgery or procedure.
Your APP will review your medical and surgical history with you. You may have tests to plan your care, such as:
- An electrocardiogram (EKG) to check your heart rhythm.
- A chest X-ray.
- Blood tests.
Your APP may recommend you see other healthcare providers. They’ll also talk with you about which medicine(s) to take the morning of your surgery.
Identify your caregiver
Your caregiver has an important role in your care. Before your surgery, you and your caregiver will learn about your surgery from your healthcare providers. After your surgery, your caregiver will take you home when you’re discharged. They’ll also help you care for yourself at home.
For caregivers
Caring for a person going through cancer treatment comes with many responsibilities. We offer resources and support to help you manage them. Visit www.msk.org/caregivers or read A Guide for Caregivers to learn more.
Fill out a Health Care Proxy form
If you have not already filled out a Health Care Proxy form, we recommend you do now. If you already filled one out or have any other advance directives, bring them to your next appointment.
A health care proxy is a legal document. It says who will speak for you if you cannot communicate for yourself. This person is called your health care agent.
- To learn about health care proxies and other advance directives, read Advance Care Planning for People With Cancer and Their Loved Ones.
- To learn about being a health care agent, read How to Be a Health Care Agent.
Talk with a member of your care team if you have questions about filling out a Health Care Proxy form.
Do breathing and coughing exercises
Practice taking deep breaths and coughing before your surgery. If you have any questions, ask your nurse or respiratory therapist.
Do physical activity
Doing physical activity will help your body get into its best condition for your surgery. It will also make your recovery faster and easier.
Try to do physical activity every day. Any activity that makes your heart beat faster, such as walking, swimming, or biking, is a good choice. If it’s cold outside, use stairs in your home or go to a mall or shopping center.
Follow a healthy diet
Follow a well-balanced, healthy diet before your surgery. If you need help with your diet, talk with your healthcare provider about meeting with a clinical dietitian nutritionist.
7 days before your surgery
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking aspirin
Aspirin can cause bleeding. If you take aspirin or a medicine that has aspirin, you may need to change your dose or stop taking it 7 days before your surgery. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Do not stop taking aspirin unless they tell you to.
To learn more, read How To Check if a Medicine or Supplement Has Aspirin, Other NSAIDs, Vitamin E, or Fish Oil.
Stop taking vitamin E, multivitamins, herbal remedies, and other dietary supplements
Vitamin E, multivitamins, herbal remedies, and other dietary supplements can cause bleeding. Stop taking them 7 days before your surgery. If your healthcare provider gives you other instructions, follow those instead.
To learn more, read Herbal Remedies and Cancer Treatment.
2 days before your surgery
Stop taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil® and Motrin®) and naproxen (Aleve®), can cause bleeding. Stop taking them 2 days before your surgery. If your healthcare provider gives you other instructions, follow those instead.
To learn more, read How To Check if a Medicine or Supplement Has Aspirin, Other NSAIDs, Vitamin E, or Fish Oil.
1 day before your surgery
Note the time of your surgery
A staff member will call you after the day before your surgery. If your surgery is scheduled for a Monday, they’ll call you the Friday before. If you do not get a call by , call 212-639-5014.
The staff member will tell you what time to get to the hospital for your surgery. They’ll also remind you where to go.
Visit www.msk.org/parking for parking information and directions to all MSK locations.
Shower
Wash yourself with soap and water the night before your surgery.
Instructions for eating
Stop eating at midnight (12 a.m.) the night before your procedure. This includes hard candy and gum.
If your healthcare provider told you to stop eating earlier than midnight, follow their instructions. Some people need to fast (not eat) for longer before their procedure.
The morning of your surgery
Instructions for drinking
Between midnight (12 a.m.) and 2 hours before your arrival time, only drink the liquids on the list below. Do not eat or drink anything else. Stop drinking 2 hours before your arrival time.
- Water.
- Clear apple juice, clear grape juice, or clear cranberry juice.
- Gatorade or Powerade.
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Black coffee or plain tea. It’s OK to add sugar. Do not add anything else.
- Do not add any amount of any type of milk or creamer. This includes plant-based milks and creamers.
- Do not add honey.
- Do not add flavored syrup.
If you have diabetes, pay attention to the amount of sugar in these drinks. It will be easier to control your blood sugar levels if you include sugar-free, low-sugar, or no added sugar versions of these drinks.
It’s helpful to stay hydrated before procedures, so drink if you are thirsty. Do not drink more than you need. You will get intravenous (IV) fluids during your procedure.
Stop drinking 2 hours before your arrival time. This includes water.
Take your medicines as instructed
A member of your care team will tell you which medicines to take the morning of your surgery. Take only those medicines with a sip of water. Depending on what you usually take, this may be all, some, or none of your usual morning medicines.
Things to remember
- Wear something comfortable and loose-fitting.
- If you wear contact lenses, wear your glasses instead. Wearing contact lenses during surgery can damage your eyes.
- Don’t wear any metal objects. Remove all jewelry, including body piercings. The tools used during your surgery can cause burns if they touch metal.
- Don’t wear any lotion, cream, deodorant, makeup, powder, perfume, or cologne.
- Leave valuable items at home.
- If you’re menstruating (have your monthly period), use a sanitary pad, not a tampon. You’ll get disposable underwear, as well as a pad if needed.
What to bring
- A button- down or loose-fitting top.
- Your breathing device for sleep apnea (such as your CPAP device), if you have one.
- Your Health Care Proxy form and other advance directives, if you completed them.
- Your cell phone and charger.
- Only the money you may want for small purchases (such as a newspaper).
- A case for your personal items (such as eyeglasses, hearing aid(s), dentures, prosthetic device(s), wig, and religious articles), if you have one.
- This guide. Your healthcare team will use it to teach you how to care for yourself after surgery.
Once you’re in the hospital
You’ll be asked to say and spell your name and birth date many times. This is for your safety. People with the same or a similar name may be having surgery on the same day.
When it’s time to change for surgery, you’ll get a hospital gown, robe, and nonskid socks to wear.
Get dressed for surgery
When it’s time to change for surgery, you’ll get a hospital gown, robe, and nonskid socks to wear.
Meet with a nurse
You’ll meet with a nurse before surgery. Tell them the dose of any medicines you took after midnight (12 a.m.) and the time you took them. Make sure to include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, patches, and creams.
Your nurse may place an intravenous (IV) line in one of your veins, usually in your arm or hand. If your nurse does not place the IV, your anesthesiologist (A-nes-THEE-zee-AH-loh-jist) will do it in the operating room.
Meet with an anesthesiologist
You’ll also meet with an anesthesiologist before surgery. They will:
- Review your medical history with you.
- Ask if you’ve had any problems with anesthesia in the past. This includes nausea (feeling like you’re going to throw up) or pain.
- Talk with you about your comfort and safety during your surgery.
- Talk with you about the kind of anesthesia you’ll get.
- Answer questions you have about anesthesia.
Get ready for surgery
When it’s time for your surgery, you’ll take off your eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures, prosthetic devices, wig, and religious articles.
You’ll either walk into the operating room or a staff member will bring you there on a stretcher. A member of the operating room team will help you onto the operating bed. They’ll put compression boots on your lower legs. These gently inflate and deflate to help blood flow in your legs.
Once you’re comfortable, your anesthesiologist will give you anesthesia through your IV line and you’ll fall asleep. You’ll also get fluids through your IV line during and after your surgery.
During your surgery
After you’re fully asleep, a breathing tube will be placed through your mouth and into your windpipe to help you breathe. A urinary (Foley) catheter will also be placed to drain urine (pee) from your bladder.
Once your surgery is finished, your incision will be closed with staples or sutures (stitches). You may also have Steri-Strips™ (thin pieces of surgical tape) or Dermabond® (surgical glue) over your incisions. Your incisions may be covered with a bandage.
Your breathing tube is usually taken out while you’re still in the operating room.
After your surgery
This section will help you know what to expect after your surgery. You’ll learn how to safely recover from your surgery both in the hospital and at home.
As you read this section, write down questions to ask your healthcare provider.
In the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)
You’ll be in the PACU when you wake up after your surgery. A nurse will be keeping track of your temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. You may get oxygen through a tube resting below your nose or a mask over your nose and mouth. You’ll also have compression boots on your lower legs.
Pain medicine
You’ll get IV pain medicine while you’re in the PACU. You may be able to control your pain medicine using a button called a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device. For more information, read Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA).
Tubes and drains
You’ll have 1 or more of the following:
- Drainage tubes near your incisions. These help drain fluid from the area to help your wounds heal.
- A Foley catheter through your urethra, into your bladder. This drains urine (pee) from your bladder.
- A face mask and humidifier. This helps keep your airways moist.
- A nasogastric (NG) feeding tube, if needed. This is a tube that goes through your nose, into your stomach. It’s used to give you nutrition. If you need a NG tube, it will be placed while you’re asleep during surgery and removed once you’re ready.
- Splints in your nose (Doyle splints). These help prevent scarring in your nose. They’ll be removed during your first appointment after surgery.
Moving to your hospital room
Depending on the type of surgery you had, you may stay in the PACU for a few hours or overnight. After your stay in the PACU, a staff member will take you to your hospital room.
In your hospital room
The length of time you’re in the hospital after your surgery depends on your recovery. A member of your healthcare team will tell you what to expect.
When you’re taken to your hospital room, you’ll meet one of the nurses who will care for you while you’re in the hospital.
While you’re in the hospital, your nurses will teach you how to care for yourself while you’re recovering from your surgery.
Read the resource Call! Don't Fall! to learn about what you can do to stay safe and keep from falling while you’re in the hospital.
Managing your pain
You’ll have some pain after your surgery. At first, you’ll get your pain medicine through your epidural catheter or IV line. You’ll be able to control your pain medicine using a PCA device. Once you’re able to eat, you’ll get oral pain medicine (medicine you swallow).
Your healthcare providers will ask you about your pain often and give you medicine as needed. If your pain isn’t relieved, tell one of your healthcare providers. It’s important to control your pain so you can use your incentive spirometer and move around. Controlling your pain will help you recover better.
You’ll get a prescription for pain medicine before you leave the hospital. Talk with your healthcare provider about possible side effects and when to start switching to over-the-counter pain medicines.
Moving around and walking
Moving around and walking will help lower your risk for blood clots and pneumonia (lung infection). It will also help you start passing gas and having bowel movements (pooping) again. Your nurse, physical therapist, or occupational therapist will help you move around, if needed.
To learn more about how walking can help you recover, read Frequently Asked Questions About Walking After Your Surgery.
To learn what you can do to stay safe and keep from falling while you’re in the hospital, read Call! Don't Fall!.
Exercising your lungs
It’s important to exercise your lungs so they expand fully. This helps prevent pneumonia.
- Use your incentive spirometer 10 times every hour you’re awake. Read How To Use Your Incentive Spirometer to learn more.
- Do coughing and deep breathing exercises. A member of your care team will teach you how.
Eating and drinking
For your first meal after your surgery, you’ll have only clear liquids. After that, you’ll slowly start following a puréed diet. If you have questions about your diet, ask to see a clinical dietitian nutritionist.
Caring for your tubes and drains
A staff member will care for your tubes and drains while you’re in the hospital. If you’ll be leaving the hospital with tubes or drains, they’ll also teach you how to care for them so you can do it yourself at home. It may be helpful if your caregiver learns too.
Showering
- If you have drainage tubes near your incision, you can shower, but don’t get the drainage tubes wet. A staff member will help you. You can take a normal shower 24 hours after your drainage tubes are removed.
- If you don’t have drainage tubes near your incision, don’t take a shower for first 48 hours after your surgery. You can take a sponge bath. A staff member will help you.
Planning for your discharge
Your nurse will teach you the self-care you’ll need to continue caring for yourself at home. This may involve irrigating your mouth and nose, if needed. You’ll also learn exercises to prevent trismus. This is the inability to open your jaw that can develop from scarring or changes in the muscles around your jaw. For more information, read the resource Managing Trismus After Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer.
If you stay in the hospital for less than 1 week, you’ll leave the hospital with staples or stitches in your incision. They’ll be removed during a follow-up appointment after surgery. If you stay in the hospital for longer than 1 week, some or all of your staples or stitches will be removed before you leave.
Leaving the hospital
By the time you’re ready to leave the hospital, your incision will have started to heal. Before you leave the hospital, look at your incision with one of your healthcare providers. Knowing what your incision looks like will help you notice any changes later.
On the day of your discharge, plan to leave the hospital around Before you leave, your healthcare provider will write your discharge order and prescriptions. You’ll also get written discharge instructions. One of your healthcare providers will review these instructions with you before you leave.
If your ride isn’t at the hospital when you’re ready to be discharged, you may be able to wait in the Patient Transition Lounge. A member of your healthcare team will give you more information.
At home
Read What You Can Do to Avoid Falling to learn what you can do to keep from falling at home and during your appointments at MSK.
Filling out your Recovery Tracker
We want to know how you’re feeling after you leave the hospital. To help us care for you, we’ll send questions to your MyMSK account. We’ll send them every day for 10 days after you’re discharged. These questions are known as your Recovery Tracker.
Fill out your Recovery Tracker every day before midnight (12 a.m.). It only takes 2 to 3 minutes to complete. Your answers to these questions will help us understand how you’re feeling and what you need.
Based on your answers, we may reach out to you for more information. Sometimes, we may ask you to call your surgeon’s office. You can always contact your surgeon’s office if you have any questions.
To learn more, read Common Questions About MSK's Recovery Tracker.
Managing your pain
People have pain or discomfort for different lengths of time. You may still have some pain when you go home and will probably be taking pain medicine. Some people have soreness, tightness, or muscle aches around their incision for 6 months or longer. This doesn’t mean something is wrong.
Follow these guidelines to help manage your pain at home.
- Take your medicines as directed and as needed.
- Call your healthcare provider if the medicine prescribed for you does not help your pain.
- Do not drive or drink alcohol while you’re taking prescription pain medicine. Some prescription pain medicines can make you drowsy (very sleepy). Alcohol can make the drowsiness worse.
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You’ll have less pain and need less pain medicine as your incision heals. An over-the-counter pain reliever will help with aches and discomfort. Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) are examples of over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for stopping your prescription pain medicine.
- Do not take too much of any medicine. Follow the instructions on the label or from your healthcare provider.
- Read the labels on all the medicines you’re taking. This is very important if you’re taking acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is an ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Taking too much can harm your liver. Do not take more than one medicine that has acetaminophen without talking with a member of your care team.
- Pain medicine should help you get back to your usual activities. Take enough to do your activities and exercises comfortably. You may have a little more pain as you start to be more active.
- Keep track of when you take your pain medicine. It works best 30 to 45 minutes after you take it. Taking it when you first have pain is better than waiting for the pain to get worse.
Preventing and managing constipation
Talk with your healthcare provider about how to prevent and manage constipation. You can also follow these guidelines.
- Go to the bathroom at the same time every day. Your body will get used to going at that time. But if you feel like you need to go, don’t put it off.
- Try to use the bathroom 5 to 15 minutes after meals. After breakfast is a good time to go. That’s when the reflexes in your colon are strongest.
- Exercise, if you can. Walking is a great type of exercise that can help prevent and manage constipation.
- Drink 8 to 10 (8-ounce) cups (2 liters) of liquids daily, if you can. Choose water, juices (such as prune juice), soups, and milkshakes. Limit liquids with caffeine, such as coffee and soda. Caffeine can pull fluid out of your body.
- Slowly increase the fiber in your diet to 25 to 35 grams per day. Unpeeled fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and cereals contain fiber. If you have an ostomy or recently had bowel surgery, ask your healthcare provider before changing your diet.
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Both over-the-counter and prescription medicines can treat constipation. Ask your healthcare provider before taking any medicine for constipation. This is very important if you have an ostomy or have had bowel surgery. Follow the instructions on the label or from your healthcare provider. Examples of over-the-counter medicines for constipation are:
- Docusate sodium (Colace®). This is a stool softener (medicine that makes your bowel movements softer) that causes few side effects. You can use it to help prevent constipation. Do not take it with mineral oil.
- Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX®). This is a laxative (medicine that causes bowel movements) that causes few side effects. Take it with 8 ounces (1 cup) of a liquid. Only take it if you’re already constipated.
- Senna (Senokot®). This is a stimulant laxative, which can cause cramping. It’s best to take it at bedtime. Only take it if you’re already constipated.
Caring for your incision
Your healthcare provider will give you written instructions on how to care for your incisions before you leave the hospital.
It’s normal for the skin below your incision to feel numb. This happens because some of your nerves were cut during your surgery. The numbness will go away over time.
Call your healthcare provider’s office if:
- The skin around your incision is very red.
- The skin around your incision is getting more red.
- You see drainage that looks like pus (thick and milky).
- Your incision smells bad.
If you go home with staples or stitches in your incision, your healthcare provider will take them out during your first appointment after surgery. It’s OK to get them wet.
If you had radiation therapy to your neck before your surgery, your healthcare provider will take out your staples or stitches 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery.
Eating and drinking
Your healthcare team will tell you if you need to follow a special diet at home. If you have questions about your diet, ask to see a clinical dietitian nutritionist.
Nasal changes after sinus surgery
If you had sinus surgery, you’ll have congestion (stuffiness) and drainage. This can come and go. Your healthcare provider will help you manage these during your appointments after surgery.
You may have less of a sense of smell for some time after your surgery. This can also affect your sense of taste. These things will come back as you heal.
Nasal precautions after sinus surgery
If you had a sinus surgery, follow the precautions below for the first 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery.
- Don’t put anything in your nose.
- Don’t drink through a straw.
- Don’t lower your head below your shoulders.
- Sneeze with your mouth open.
- Cough with your mouth open.
Your healthcare provider will tell you if this applies to you.
Physical activity and exercise
When you leave the hospital, your incision will look like it’s healed on the outside, but it won’t be healed on the inside. For the first 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery:
- Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds (about 4.5 kilograms).
- Don’t do any strenuous activities (such as jogging and tennis).
- Don’t play any contact sports (such as football).
Doing aerobic exercise, such as walking and stair climbing, will help you gain strength and feel better. Walk at least 2 to 3 times a day for 20 to 30 minutes. You can walk outside or indoors at your local mall or shopping center.
It’s normal to have less energy than usual after your surgery. Recovery time is different for each person. Increase your activities each day as much as you can. Always balance activity periods with rest periods. Rest is an important part of your recovery.
Driving
Ask your healthcare provider when you can drive. Most people can start driving again 1 week after surgery. Don’t drive while you’re taking pain medicine that may make you drowsy.
You can ride in a car as a passenger at any time after you leave the hospital.
Going back to work
Talk with your healthcare provider about your job. They’ll tell you when it may be safe for you to start working again based on what you do. If you move around a lot or lift heavy objects, you may need to stay out a little longer. If you sit at a desk, you may be able to go back sooner.
Traveling
If you had sinus or skull base surgery, don’t fly in a plane for 6 weeks after your surgery. Your healthcare team will tell you if this applies to you.
Getting your test results
The tissue that was removed during your surgery will be examined by a pathologist after your surgery. The test results are usually ready in 1 week, but they can take longer depending on the tests that are done. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your first follow-up appointment after your surgery.
Follow-up appointments
Your healthcare provider will talk with you about your long-term follow-up care. Your first appointment after your surgery will be about 7 to 10 days after you’re discharged from the hospital. During this visit, your nurse will teach you how to care for your nose and sinuses at home, if needed.
If you have a sinus surgery, you’ll have regular appointments with your doctor during the first month after surgery. They’ll help keep your nose and sinuses clear which can help you heal and keep you comfortable.
You’ll have regular appointments with your dental team for several months after your surgery. If you have an obturator, they’ll adjust it as needed to help you be able to chew, swallow, and speak. If needed, a facial prosthesis will be made to help you look the same as you did before your surgery.
If needed, a speech pathologist from the Speech and Hearing Center will work with you. A speech pathologist treats:
- Voice loss
- Swallowing disorders
- Impaired speech
Your speech pathologist will help you regain as much of your speech and swallowing as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact your healthcare provider’s office at any time after you’ve been discharged from the hospital.
Managing your feelings
After surgery for a serious illness, you may have new and upsetting feelings. Many people say they felt weepy, sad, worried, nervous, irritable, and angry at one time or another. You may find that you can’t control some of these feelings. If this happens, it’s a good idea to seek emotional support. Your healthcare provider can refer you to MSK’s Counseling Center. You can also reach them by calling 646-888-0200.
The first step in coping is to talk about how you feel. Family and friends can help. Your healthcare providers can reassure, support, and guide you. It’s always a good idea to let us know how you, your family, and your friends are feeling emotionally. Many resources are available to you and your family. Whether you’re in the hospital or at home, we’re here to help you and your family and friends handle the emotional aspects of your illness.
Your treatment may change your appearance. This can be especially upsetting. There are many resources to help you and your family during your recovery. Some are here at MSK and others are in your community. Ask your doctor, nurse, or social worker about options.
The Resources for Life After Cancer (RLAC) Program provides support and education for people who are finished with treatment. To learn more about the programs they offer, call 646-888-8106 or go to www.mskcc.org/experience/living-beyond-cancer/services-survivors
Depression can occur at any time when you have a cancer diagnosis. It’s important to recognize the symptoms. Help is available to treat and manage it. Signs of depression are:
- Feelings of helplessness and sadness lasting longer than usual
- Inability or difficulty to concentrate, carry out normal activities, or both
- Change in mood
- Change in sleep pattern
- Change in appetite
If you have any of these symptoms and they last more than 2 weeks, tell your healthcare provider.
When to contact your healthcare provider
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a fever of 100.5 °F (38 °C) or higher.
- You have chills.
- You’re having trouble breathing.
- The skin around your incision is warmer than usual.
- The skin around your incision is getting redder.
- The area around your incision is starting to swell.
- The area around your incision is getting more swollen.
- You have drainage or fluid coming from your incision site.
- You have any questions or concerns.
Monday through Friday from to , contact your healthcare provider’s office. After , during the weekend, and on holidays, call 212-639-2000 and ask to speak to the person on call for your healthcare doctor.
Support services
This section has a list of support services. They may help you as you get ready for your surgery and recover after your surgery.
As you read this section, write down questions to ask your healthcare provider.
MSK support services
Admitting Office
212-639-7606
Call if you have questions about your hospital admission, such as asking for a private room.
Anesthesia
212-639-6840
Call if you have questions about anesthesia.
Blood Donor Room
212-639-7643
Call for information if you’re interested in donating blood or platelets.
Bobst International Center
332-699-7968
We welcome patients from around the world and offer many services to help. If you’re an international patient, call for help arranging your care.
Counseling Center
www.msk.org/counseling
646-888-0200
Many people find that counseling helps them. Our Counseling Center offers counseling for individuals, couples, families, and groups. We can also prescribe medicine to help if you feel anxious or depressed. Ask a member of your care team for a referral or call the number above to make an appointment.
Food Pantry Program
646-888-8055
We give food to people in need during their cancer treatment. Talk with a member of your care team or call the number above to learn more.
Integrative Medicine Service
www.msk.org/integrativemedicine
Our Integrative Medicine Service offers many services to complement (go along with) traditional medical care. For example, we offer music therapy, mind/body therapies, dance and movement therapy, yoga, and touch therapy. Call 646-449-1010 to make an appointment for these services.
You can also schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider in the Integrative Medicine Service. They’ll work with you to make a plan for creating a healthy lifestyle and managing side effects. Call 646-608-8550 to make an appointment for a consultation.
MSK Library
library.mskcc.org
212-639-7439
You can visit our library website or call to talk with the library reference staff. They can help you find more information about a type of cancer. You can also visit the library’s Patient and Health Care Consumer Education Guide.
Nutrition Services
www.msk.org/nutrition
212-639-7312
Our Nutrition Service offers nutritional counseling with one of our clinical dietitian nutritionists. Your clinical dietitian nutritionist will talk with you about your eating habits. They can also give advice on what to eat during and after treatment. Ask a member of your care team for a referral or call the number above to make an appointment.
Patient and Community Education
www.msk.org/pe
Visit our patient and community education website to search for educational resources, videos, and online programs.
Patient Billing
646-227-3378
Call if you have questions about preauthorization with your insurance company. This is also called preapproval.
Patient Representative Office
212-639-7202
Call if you have questions about the Health Care Proxy form or concerns about your care.
Perioperative Nurse Liaison
212-639-5935
Call if you have questions about MSK releasing any information while you’re having surgery.
Private Duty Nurses and Companions
917-862-6373
You can request private nurses or companions to care for you in the hospital and at home. Call to learn more.
Rehabilitation Services
www.msk.org/rehabilitation
Cancers and cancer treatments can make your body feel weak, stiff, or tight. Some can cause lymphedema (swelling). Our physiatrists (rehabilitation medicine doctors), occupational therapists (OTs), and physical therapists (PTs) can help you get back to your usual activities.
- Rehabilitation medicine doctors diagnose and treat problems that affect how you move and do activities. They can design and help coordinate your rehabilitation therapy program, either at MSK or somewhere closer to home. Call Rehabilitation Medicine (Physiatry) at 646-888-1929 to learn more.
- An OT can help if you’re having trouble doing usual daily activities. For example, they can recommend tools to help make daily tasks easier. A PT can teach you exercises to help build strength and flexibility. Call Rehabilitation Therapy at 646-888-1900 to learn more.
Resources for Life After Cancer (RLAC) Program
646-888-8106
At MSK, care does not end after your treatment. The RLAC Program is for patients and their families who have finished treatment.
This program has many services. We offer seminars, workshops, support groups, and counseling on life after treatment. We can also help with insurance and employment issues.
Sexual Health Programs
Cancer and cancer treatments can affect your sexual health, fertility, or both. MSK’s sexual health programs can help you before, during, or after your treatment.
- Our Female Sexual Medicine and Women’s Health Program can help with sexual health problems such as premature menopause or fertility issues. Ask a member of your MSK care team for a referral or call 646-888-5076 to learn more.
- Our Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program can help with sexual health problems such as erectile dysfunction (ED). Ask a member of your care team for a referral or call 646-888-6024 to learn more.
Social Work
www.msk.org/socialwork
212-639-7020
Social workers help patients, families, and friends deal with common issues for people who have cancer. They provide individual counseling and support groups throughout your treatment. They can help you communicate with children and other family members.
Our social workers can also help refer you to community agencies and programs. If you’re having trouble paying your bills, they also have information about financial resources. Call the number above to learn more.
Spiritual Care
212-639-5982
Our chaplains (spiritual counselors) are available to listen, help support family members, and pray. They can contact community clergy or faith groups, or simply be a comforting companion and a spiritual presence. Anyone can ask for spiritual support. You do not have to have a religious affiliation (connection to a religion).
MSK’s interfaith chapel is located near Memorial Hospital’s main lobby. It’s open 24 hours a day. If you have an emergency, call 212-639-2000. Ask for the chaplain on call.
Tobacco Treatment Program
www.msk.org/tobacco
212-610-0507
If you want to quit smoking, MSK has specialists who can help. Call to learn more.
Virtual Programs
www.msk.org/vp
We offer online education and support for patients and caregivers. These are live sessions where you can talk or just listen. You can learn about your diagnosis, what to expect during treatment, and how to prepare for your cancer care.
Sessions are private, free, and led by experts. Visit our website to learn more about Virtual Programs or to register.
External support services
Access-A-Ride
web.mta.info/nyct/paratran/guide.htm
877-337-2017
In New York City, the MTA offers a shared ride, door-to-door service for people with disabilities who can’t take the public bus or subway.
Air Charity Network
www.aircharitynetwork.org
877-621-7177
Provides travel to treatment centers.
American Cancer Society (ACS)
www.cancer.org
800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345)
Offers a variety of information and services, including Hope Lodge, a free place for patients and caregivers to stay during cancer treatment.
Cancer and Careers
www.cancerandcareers.org
646-929-8032
A resource for education, tools, and events for employees with cancer.
CancerCare
www.cancercare.org
800-813-4673
275 Seventh Avenue (Between West 25th & 26th Streets)
New York, NY 10001
Provides counseling, support groups, educational workshops, publications, and financial assistance.
Cancer Support Community
www.cancersupportcommunity.org
Provides support and education to people affected by cancer.
Caregiver Action Network
www.caregiveraction.org
800-896-3650
Provides education and support for people who care for loved ones with a chronic illness or disability.
Corporate Angel Network
www.corpangelnetwork.org
866-328-1313
Offers free travel to treatment across the country using empty seats on corporate jets.
Good Days
www.mygooddays.org
877-968-7233
Offers financial assistance to pay for copayments during treatment. Patients must have medical insurance, meet the income criteria, and be prescribed medicine that’s part of the Good Days formulary.
HealthWell Foundation
www.healthwellfoundation.org
800-675-8416
Provides financial assistance to cover copayments, health care premiums, and deductibles for certain medicines and therapies.
Joe’s House
www.joeshouse.org
877-563-7468
Provides a list of places to stay near treatment centers for people with cancer and their families.
LGBT Cancer Project
www.lgbtcancer.com
Provides support and advocacy for the LGBT community, including online support groups and a database of LGBT-friendly clinical trials.
LIVESTRONG Fertility
www.livestrong.org/we-can-help/fertility-services
855-744-7777
Provides reproductive information and support to cancer patients and survivors whose medical treatments have risks associated with infertility.
Look Good Feel Better Program
www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org
800-395-LOOK (800-395-5665)
This program offers workshops to learn things you can do to help you feel better about your appearance. For more information or to sign up for a workshop, call the number above or visit the program’s website.
National Cancer Institute
www.cancer.gov
800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237)
National LGBT Cancer Network
www.cancer-network.org
Provides education, training, and advocacy for LGBT cancer survivors and those at risk.
Needy Meds
www.needymeds.org
Lists Patient Assistance Programs for brand and generic name medicines.
NYRx
www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/program/pharmacy.htm
Provides prescription benefits to eligible employees and retirees of public sector employers in New York State.
Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation
www.panfoundation.org
866-316-7263
Gives help with copayments for patients with insurance.
Patient Advocate Foundation
www.patientadvocate.org
800-532-5274
Provides access to care, financial assistance, insurance assistance, job retention assistance, and access to the national underinsured resource directory.
Professional Prescription Advice
www.pparx.org
888-477-2669
Helps qualifying patients without prescription drug coverage get free or low-cost medicines.
Red Door Community (formerly known as Gilda’s Club)
www.reddoorcommunity.org
212-647-9700
A place where people living with cancer find social and emotional support through networking, workshops, lectures, and social activities.
RxHope
www.rxhope.com
877-267-0517
Provides assistance to help people get medicines they have trouble affording.
Triage Cancer
www.triagecancer.org
Provides legal, medical, and financial information and resources for cancer patients and their caregivers.
Educational resources
This section lists the educational resources mentioned in this guide. They will help you get ready for your surgery and recover after your surgery.
As you read these resources, write down questions to ask your healthcare provider.
- Common Questions About MSK's Recovery Tracker
- Advance Care Planning for People With Cancer and Their Loved Ones
- Call! Don't Fall!
- How To Check if a Medicine or Supplement Has Aspirin, Other NSAIDs, Vitamin E, or Fish Oil
- Herbal Remedies and Cancer Treatment
- How to Enroll in MyMSK: Memorial Sloan Kettering's Patient Portal
- How To Use Your Incentive Spirometer
- What You Can Do to Avoid Falling
- Managing Trismus After Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer