Recovery

Temporary throbbing, aching, swelling, redness, and numbness are expected. Tenderness can last up to 3 months.

For the first week, keep your head elevated on 2-3 pillows while sleeping.

Please refrain from showering for the first 7 days after surgery. In the meantime, you can bathe, but DO NOT submerge your head in the water. You may gently wash your hair on the 5th post-operative day.

It is difficult to predict how much swelling or bruising an individual will have after surgery. However, bruising is typically gone within 10-14 days. Initial swelling may take 2-3 weeks to subside, but keep in mind final results may take anywhere from 6-12 months. Healing from otoplasty to evaluate the final results takes 1 full year.

Keep your dressings dry. We will provide you with a headband that should be worn continuously for the first 5 days. It should only be removed to perform incision care. After 5 days you will continue to wear it for an additional 7 days only while you sleep.  This helps to hold the ears in good position and protect them.

Avoid bending, lifting, pulling, pushing, straining, and aerobic activities for 3 weeks. You may return to regular exercise 3 weeks after surgery. Moderately strenuous exercise, or contact sports should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

Children can typically go back to school within 3-4 days after surgery. Adults may return to work after 1 week, or before, depending upon the person, or type of work they do.

When to Call

  • If you have increased swelling or bruising
  • If swelling and redness persists after a few days.
  • If you have increased redness along the incision.
  • If you have severe or increased pain not relieved by medication.
  • If you have any side effects to medications, such as, rash, nausea, headache, vomiting.
  • If you have an oral temperature over 100.4 degrees.
  • If you have any yellowish, or greenish drainage from the incisions, or notice a foul odor.
  • If you have bleeding from the incisions that is difficult to control with light pressure.
  • If you have loss of feeling, or motion.
  • If you have any unusual symptoms.

Keep the area clean. Contact your provider to discuss need for further evaluation and treatment recommendations. If there is a problem, please call our office. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.

If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.

Follow-Up

Follow-up is typically in 7-10 days and should be scheduled by calling our office if it has not already been arranged.

If you’re seeking expert post-operative care for otoplasty, the team at Ohio Plastic Surgery Specialists in Gahanna, Ohio, is here to support your recovery journey. Known for their expertise in plastic surgery Gahanna residents trust, their professionals ensure your healing process is smooth and successful.

Ohio Plastic Surgery Specialists offer comprehensive guidance as part of their commitment to excellence in plastic surgery Gahanna patients rely on for top-quality care. Located conveniently at 1085 East Johnstown Rd., Gahanna, Ohio, you can easily access their state-of-the-art facilities. For personalized assistance or to book a consultation, call 614-682-5095 today.

As you embark on your recovery with Ohio Plastic Surgery Specialists, rest assured that the dedication to quality plastic surgery Gahanna families appreciate is evident in every step. Your journey to enhanced well-being is their priority, and their experienced staff is ready to address any concerns you may have.