Heavy narcotics were prescribed, but it was the frequent application of ice that allowed the drugs to catch up with and/or control the pain. I had a tonsillectomy performed at the same time, so I was extra-miserable. It was the septum/sinus stuff that hurt the most, though. After healing, my breathing through the previously-mostly-closed nostril improved about 50% or so. Doesn't feel completely open, but it is improved.