Swelling and crusting after nasal surgery can temporarily reduce smell. Recovery depends on the procedure and previous disease; full recovery within 1–3 months cannot be guaranteed.
Comparison with preoperative smell and nasal examination matters. Follow the surgeon's rinse and spray plan and do not remove crusts with tools. Contact the surgeon if smell fails to improve, worsens or accompanies new pain, fever or offensive discharge. Persistent loss may need smell testing and further cause-specific assessment; do not start steroids independently.
Assessment considers nasal blockage, infection history, medicines and smell testing when needed. Imaging is not required for everyone. Treatment depends on the cause; the degree and timing of improvement vary.
Check smoke and gas alarms and food expiry dates. Smell changes with head injury, new neurological symptoms or one-sided bloody discharge need urgent assessment.
This information does not replace an individual consultation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on a medical assessment.
Consultation and treatment