OpenHealth Q&A

Chronic and Increasingly Distressing Sinus Problems Four Years After Jaw Surgery

Hello, doctors. I'm a 21-year-old female, standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 135 pounds, of mixed descent. I do not take any medications, nor do I smoke or use drugs. It has been four years since my double jaw surgery, which involved moving my upper jaw forward and tilting it, while positioning my lower jaw backward and to the side. Although I am pleased with the aesthetic outcomes, I have experienced ongoing sinus issues since the operation, which have escalated in the last year in peculiar ways. After researching my symptoms, I have yet to find anyone presenting anything closely resembling my experience! During my recovery period, I noticed a pinkish-orange discharge originating from my left nostril. My doctor didn’t prescribe anything extra, as this was deemed a typical aftermath of the surgical intervention on my sinuses. A year post-surgery, I began to observe a persistent yellow mucus, at times tinged with blood, emanating from the back of my throat. I could draw this mucus down onto my tongue, but it promptly returned shortly after clearing it. Upon spitting it out, the mucous resembled what one would expel during a cold. Its taste was unpleasant and the consistency was thick, often adhering to the sink when I attempted to wash it away. Fast forward to 2023, I brought this issue up during a follow-up appointment with my surgeon. He organized a scan which revealed that my left sinus was congested. I was given a two-week course of Flonase and antibiotics, but this did not resolve the problem. As I was scheduled to travel to a more humid area, my surgeon opted not to prescribe further treatment, hoping the change in climate might help. Upon return, while my scan indicated my sinus was clear, the mucus issue persisted! Eventually, my surgeon referred me to an ENT specialist; however, I postponed the appointment for another two years (until 2025) because I didn’t experience significant pain or symptoms and simply accepted this condition. In the past twelve months, however, I've started to feel pain and some unusual sensations. For example, when my head tilts (such as when resting on someone’s shoulder or bending over) and I return it to an upright position, I experience a strange tingling sensation near my upper molars, as if some movement is happening inside. Upon using a neti pot, I could distinctly feel the solution moving into my sinuses and the upper dental area, which was so alarming that I have avoided trying it again. Now, when I draw the mucus down from where it accumulates between my nose and throat, there’s a palpable pulling sensation at my left sinus, indicating I can actually feel the mucus being relocated. This sensation is strictly on the left side. Additionally, when swimming, I find myself unable to go more than two feet underwater without intense pressure in my ears, making it nearly impossible to enjoy being submerged—a stark contrast to my previous experiences. There have been occasions where I’ve bent down to pet my cat, only to have a salty, clear fluid unexpectedly drip from my left nostril. Following one such incident, I woke up from a nap with an excruciating sinus headache that lingered for eight hours, unrelieved even by taking Advil. Currently, I'm almost perpetually aware of my sinuses; I frequently feel pressure in them (more notably on the left) and in my upper molars. Upon visiting an ENT, the recommendation was to restart antibiotics and undergo a scan. If chronic sinusitis is diagnosed, I may need to consider balloon sinuplasty. However, I can’t shake the feeling that my symptoms suggest a deeper structural issue, and I believe I deserve a more thorough examination. I feel that my case is not a standard condition. I would greatly appreciate any advice on whether my concerns are exaggerated, and if they are valid, how I can best pursue the right form of treatment and advocate for myself effectively. Thank you!

Answers (1)

7/28/2025, 12:40:46 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're experiencing complex and distressing sinus issues after your jaw surgery, which may be impacting your quality of life. It's completely valid to be concerned about your symptoms, especially with the level of discomfort and unusual sensations you've described. Here’s a structured approach to help you:

Summary of Main Points:

• Your ongoing and worsening sinus symptoms after jaw surgery could indicate underlying chronic sinusitis or other structural issues.
• It’s essential to thoroughly evaluate your symptoms and advocate for appropriate treatment.
• Taking proactive steps and keeping a close record of your symptoms will assist you and your healthcare providers.

Explanation:

The symptoms you've reported—persistent yellow mucus, sensations of pressure and pulling in your sinuses, and difficulty with pressure changes (like swimming)—point towards possible chronic sinus issues. After surgery, changes in sinus anatomy can occur, leading to symptoms that may not respond to standard treatments like antibiotics or steroids.

Next Steps to Take:

1. Continue Engaging with Healthcare Professionals:

   • Follow Up with ENT: Since you’ve already been referred to an ENT, try to book that appointment as soon as possible. Directly express your concern about potential structural issues or chronic sinusitis.
   • Prepare for Your Appointment:
     • Document all your symptoms in detail (date, duration, triggers).
     • Write down your concerns about structural issues and any specific questions about your surgical history and its relation to your symptoms.

2. Symptom Management at Home:

   • Use Saline Irrigation: If tolerated, revisit using a neti pot with saline solution, as this can help clear mucus. Start with a very gentle approach and see how your body responds.
   • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus.
   • Manage Environmental Factors: Consider using a humidifier at home to maintain moisture in the air, particularly in dry climates.

3. Monitor and Document Symptoms:

   • Keep a diary of your symptoms, including how they change based on activities (like swimming) or environmental conditions (like humidity).

4. Consider a second opinion:

   • If your concerns persist and you feel your symptoms are not being adequately addressed, consider seeking a second opinion from another ENT specialist, preferably one with experience in post-surgical cases.

5. Explore Additional Diagnostic Tools:

   • Ask about further imaging studies (like a CT scan) or functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) if chronic sinusitis is confirmed. Don't hesitate to discuss the possibility of other treatments, like balloon sinuplasty, if chronic sinusitis is diagnosed.

Reassurance:

Your concerns about your sinus issues are valid and deserve thorough investigation. You know your body best, and advocating for your health is essential. It’s understandable to feel apprehensive, but with the right approach, you can work towards finding relief and improving your symptoms. If you ever feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to share your feelings with supportive friends or family.