What is a polyp?
A polyp is a swelling often found in the nose which can cause discomfort and breathing problems for some people.
It can also cause sinus infections and problems with sense of smell.
What is a polypectomy?
Polyps are often treated with sprays and drops in the nose but when this doesn’t work, a polypectomy can be done to remove the polyp.
A polypectomy is done under a general anaesthetic, which means you are asleep. After the operation, you stay in hospital for a few hours while you recover and then you can go home.
You will need someone to collect you from the day case unit and stay with you overnight to make sure you feel OK after the anaesthetic.
Are there any risks?
Returning Polyps
Polyps can often come back after surgery but it is very difficult to know how long this will take. It may take months or it may take years.
Bleeding
It is very common to have some bleeding straight after the operation and you may have a very small amount of bleeding for about 4 weeks after the surgery when blowing your nose or sneezing.
There will be some dry blood in your nose that will eventually go away but before then you might see a brown/dark red coloured discharge coming from your nose when you blow.
If you have a bleed from your nose that doesn’t stop quickly or is quite large, please attend your local Accident and Emergency department for treatment.
There is a very small chance that you will have to go back in to surgery if the bleeding doesn’t stop on its own or with other treatment.
Infection
There is a small risk of infection after the operation but this is usually treated very easily with antibiotic tablets.
If you do feel as though you have a fever or you feel generally unwell, see your GP/Doctor or come to the accident and emergency department where you will be assessed and treated.
Contact Numbers
If you have any questions or problems, please contact:
Rachel Parks
ENT Specialist Nurse
rachel.parks@nca.nhs.uk
Ear, Nose, and Throat (E.N.T.) Dept - 0161 206 4758
Date of Review: November 2024
Date of Next Review: November 2026
Ref No: PI_SU_1378 (Salford)