Sinus pressure and foggy feeling 12 days post-surgery.

I had an augmentation and lift 12 days ago and for six days now, I feel like I have tons of sinus pressure and my ears pop all day long. I even get a foggy, spaced out feeling at times. I went to the doctor and they said I don't have a sinus infection. Could this be a side effect from surgery or the general anesthesia?

Answers from doctors (4)


More About Doctor David J. Levens, MD

Published on Jun 14, 2021

It is not uncommon to have mild upper respiratory symptoms after general anesthesia that usually resolve within a few days of any type of surgery, especially surgery of the nose or face. Also you may have had some mild "preclinical" URI issues brewing preop that were worsened by the trauma of surgery. That is why preop "clearance" is so important to try to minimize such events. If you have a true (bacterial) sinus infection it would be best seek attention from your primary physician for appropriate treatment such as antibiotics.

Answered by David J. Levens, MD (View Profile)

It is not uncommon to have mild upper respiratory symptoms after general anesthesia that usually resolve within a few days of any type of surgery, especially surgery of the nose or face. Also you may have had some mild "preclinical" URI issues brewing preop that were worsened by the trauma of surgery. That is why preop "clearance" is so important to try to minimize such events. If you have a true (bacterial) sinus infection it would be best seek attention from your primary physician for appropriate treatment such as antibiotics.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Joseph Cruise, MD

Published on Jul 19, 2017

It is unlikely the surgery/anesthesia is causing these issues. While you may not have a sinus infection, you could very well have a general cold. Your immune system could be working overtime after having surgery, so be sure to keep well hydrated, eat lots of fruits high in Vitamin C, fiber rich foods, and take a daily vitamin as well. You could also start taking probiotics. Rest and take care!

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Answered by Joseph Cruise, MD

It is unlikely the surgery/anesthesia is causing these issues. While you may not have a sinus infection, you could very well have a general cold. Your immune system could be working overtime after having surgery, so be sure to keep well hydrated, eat lots of fruits high in Vitamin C, fiber rich foods, and take a daily vitamin as well. You could also start taking probiotics. Rest and take care!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


James D. Wethe, M.D.

Published on Jul 19, 2017

Well... without knowing what type of anesthesia you had for your surgery all I can do is give you some insight as to what could be happening. If you had an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask for anesthesia, they both go past the opening of the middle ear tube into the back of the throat. With a bit of swelling it would not be unusual for there to be a feeling that you needed to clear your ears as that tube could be partially blocked. If it continues, I would seek out an ENT specialist to properly evaluate you. Continue to discuss your concerns with your operating surgeon... they should be able to help direct you. I hope this helps.

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Answered by James D. Wethe, M.D.

Well... without knowing what type of anesthesia you had for your surgery all I can do is give you some insight as to what could be happening. If you had an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask for anesthesia, they both go past the opening of the middle ear tube into the back of the throat. With a bit of swelling it would not be unusual for there to be a feeling that you needed to clear your ears as that tube could be partially blocked. If it continues, I would seek out an ENT specialist to properly evaluate you. Continue to discuss your concerns with your operating surgeon... they should be able to help direct you. I hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Stephen Greenberg, MD

Published on Jul 19, 2017

Thank you for your question. What you are experiencing is not likely to be a result of your surgery or anesthesia. I would recommend following up with your medical doctor for an evaluation.

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Answered by Stephen Greenberg, MD

Thank you for your question. What you are experiencing is not likely to be a result of your surgery or anesthesia. I would recommend following up with your medical doctor for an evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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