Post-Operative Symptoms After Nasal Wing Nerve Resection

Postoperative symptoms following alar nerve resection surgery?

I am involved in the fields of communication, efficiency research, and causal experiments.
On November 2nd, I underwent a nasal wing nerve resection surgery at Tzu Chi Hospital in Taichung.
I would like to write a report to share accurate information about postoperative symptoms with my friends and family via LINE and Facebook for their reference.
Currently, there is an interesting phenomenon where it seems that my nose and eyes have a sort of unspoken agreement to take turns experiencing discomfort.
During the day, I feel a sensation of wind and soreness when inhaling through my nose.
After nightfall, from 10 PM until breakfast, the focus of discomfort shifts to my eyes, which feel dry and sore.
Chewing provides some relief.
I asked the surgeon whether the tear gland nerves and nasal mucosa have not healed yet.
He nodded somewhat awkwardly but optimistically reassured me: "Don't worry, it will recover in three months and will not affect tear production." I would like to consult with a medical expert regarding the following statistical information: 1) Is the aforementioned sensation of wind, soreness, dryness, and pain due to the micro-injury not having healed yet? 2) Generally, how long does it take for these symptoms to resolve? 3) After complete recovery, what percentage reduction in tear production can be expected? What is the likelihood of developing dry eye syndrome? Wishing you good luck and good health.

Huang Long, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/01

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

1.
Are the symptoms of wind, soreness, dryness, and pain due to the fact that the micro-incisions have not yet healed? Is it caused by slight swelling of the wounds?
2.
How long does one typically have to endure these symptoms before they resolve? Generally, it takes about 3 to 6 months.

3.
After complete recovery, by what percentage will tear production decrease? What is the likelihood of developing dry eye syndrome? It varies from person to person; younger individuals may experience a higher percentage of reduction but may not necessarily feel dry eyes.
However, if one is over 50 years old, symptoms of dry eyes tend to be more pronounced.
Wishing you safety and health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/01

More Info

After undergoing a nasal wing nerve resection, it is common to experience a variety of post-operative symptoms as the body heals. Your observations about the alternating sensations between your nose and eyes are intriguing and can be explained by the interconnectedness of the nasal and ocular systems.

1. Post-Operative Symptoms: The sensations of dryness and discomfort you are experiencing in your nose and eyes are likely due to the surgical trauma and the healing process. The nasal wing nerve, which is involved in the sensation and function of the nasal mucosa, may take time to recover. The "wind" sensation you feel when inhaling could be attributed to the altered sensitivity in the nasal passages post-surgery. The dryness and discomfort in your eyes, particularly at night, may be related to the disruption of the normal tear production and drainage pathways, which can occur after nerve-related surgeries.

2. Recovery Timeline: Generally, the recovery period after such a procedure can vary from person to person. While your surgeon mentioned that you should expect improvement within three months, this is a common timeframe for many patients. However, complete healing can take longer, and it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it is advisable to follow up with your surgeon for a thorough evaluation.

3. Tear Production and Dry Eye Risk: Regarding your concerns about tear production, it is important to note that while some patients may experience a temporary decrease in tear production following nerve surgery, many recover their normal function over time. The extent of any long-term changes in tear production can vary based on individual factors, including the specific nerves affected and the extent of the surgery. The risk of developing dry eye syndrome post-operatively is present, especially if the surgery impacts the nerves that control tear production. However, many patients do not experience significant long-term effects.

In summary, your post-operative symptoms are likely a result of the surgical trauma and the healing process. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms, as they can provide personalized guidance and reassurance. If you experience persistent discomfort or new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your recovery is a priority, and understanding the healing process can help you manage your expectations and symptoms effectively.

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