Recovering from an otoplasty procedure is often less intrusive than other plastic surgeries. However, there are some things that you can do to help your recovery period go faster. If you’re reading this, there’s probably a good chance that you’ve just had your otoplasty, or you’re considering getting this procedure and want more information regarding recovery.
Before you see the final results of your otoplasty procedure, you need to be patient and carefully follow the post-surgery care instructions that your surgeon gives you. These instructions will help you during your recovery so that your ears to heal correctly.
- Avoid rubbing your ears
Most cosmetic ear surgery procedures are administered under local anaesthesia. That means you won’t feel nauseous or groggy once your procedure is done. You’ll be able to function as you usually do immediately following the procedure. One of the most important things to remember during your recovery is to never excessively rub or touch your ears, either accidentally or consciously. Try sleeping on your back, so you don’t put any pressure on your ears while you’re sleeping.
- Wear a headband
Immediately after the procedure, you’ll have a bulky dressing placed over your ears to cover them. This dressing will be replaced after one to seven days with a lighter one and a wide headband that will cover up your ears entirely. The headband will protect your ears and ensure that they’re kept in place. Most otoplasty patients need to wear the headband 24/7 for the first week and some for two weeks.
- Don’t panic if there’s some discharge
Make sure that you have your otoplasty procedure administered by a qualified and experienced surgeon like Sydney ear surgery Dr Zurek to ensure the best results. During the first week following your procedure, it’s not uncommon for the ears to drain a bit of fluid. The discharge is often either dark, thick or red-tinged; use hydrogen peroxide and a cotton swab to clean the ear, but take special care that you don’t enter the ear canal. If you feel like there is a lot of drainage contact your surgeon immediately.
- Keep your head elevated
Swelling is a normal part of the recovery process. To minimise swelling try to keep your head elevated, especially when you’re in bed. Use pillows to prop your head up. As soon as you wake up and go to get out of bed, make sure that you avoid bending over as this motion can increase the risk of bleeding. Don’t be alarmed if you see some swelling because this normally lasts for up to two months.
- Don’t scratch the incision lines
Its common for incision lines to start to feel itchy. This is often a sign that the incisions are healing as they should and the nerves are regenerating. No matter how itchy they become, avoid scratching to prevent damage. Itchiness can also be accompanied by heat, discharge and redness.
