To begin with, keep in mind that each client’s situation is completely unique, and you should therefore follow those specific aftercare instructions provided by your otoplasty surgeon. Prior to the procedure, they will carefully examine your ears and explain each step of the procedure to you.
Unless you request otherwise, you will most likely be given a local anesthetic, which means you will be awake during the procedure but will not be able to sense anything in your ears. Anesthesia causes grogginess and drowsiness, so make sure visitors have someone available to take you home after the procedure.
How Can I Get the Best Out of My Otoplasty Recovery?
Taking good care of yourself throughout your otoplasty recovery can help you heal more quickly and smoothly. Begin by clearly following their facial plastic surgeon’s instructions and communicating with him about any questions or concerns you have throughout the procedure.
Avoid any strenuous activity until you have been cleared by your surgeon for the best possible recovery. You should also use cold compresses to keep the area all over your ears cool. Take your pain medication as directed to reduce your pain and discomfort, or any physical stress that could impede the healing process.
Avoid getting the location wet or showering, keep your head elevated to reduce swelling, and don’t sleep on your side, especially at first. By following these simple steps, you will lay the groundwork for a complete recovery from otoplasty surgery.
Timeline for Otoplasty Healing
You should expect a lot of pain and discomfort after your otoplasty surgery. Surprisingly, patients who undergo this procedure typically experience far less pain than expected. In fact, otoplasty is a relatively simple procedure, and the ears are easier to manipulate than in other areas of the face.
Your recovery will be relatively quick and will most likely be without complications. Knowing when you’ll start to heal and just what symptoms to expect can help you plan your recovery.
In general, otoplasty patients can anticipate the following healing achievements as they recover:
The first 24 hours are critical for recovery, so make sure you get a lot of rest and stay hydrated. You will wear a mild contraction dressing around your ears during this time. Your ears will become swollen and painful.
24 to 72 hours: While swelling may gradually decrease, you should notice a significant improvement by the final moment of your third day of healing. You will also be wearing your compression bandage during this time.
Three to one week: Many patients begin to feel more at ease at this point, with some being cleared to return to work. If you have a physically demanding job, you will need to take more time off. Your ears will be less swollen and may be easier to conceal when styling your hair.
One to two weeks: Your ears will no longer be visibly swollen to others, and you will be able to resume most of your daily (and social) activities.
By three months: While you’ll feel better sooner than three months, it may take up to three days or weeks for your swelling to go away completely.
Discuss any concerns you have about the healing process with your facial plastic surgeon. Your otoplasty experience will be heavily influenced by the changes made to your ears as well as your personal circumstances.
Avoid Rubbing or Touching Your Ears.
You must avoid placing or rubbing your cheeks at all costs, no matter how itchy or uncomfortable the headband or dressing becomes. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid accidentally grazing your ears against anything, as this can result in severe pain, distress, and irritation.
How Long Does It Take for Ears to Settle After Otoplasty?
Many patients question how long it will take for their ears to fully adjust to their new position following otoplasty, a surgical treatment to treat prominent or projecting ears. Even though recovery timeframes can vary from person to person, it’s crucial to understand how recovery works in general.
Patients should anticipate some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the area of the ears after otoplasty. This is a typical sign of the healing process and will eventually go away. The majority of people discover that the initial bruising and swelling go away within the first few weeks following surgery.
In order to support the new ear shape and reduce the danger of stress to the surgical site, patients are often encouraged to wear a protective headband or dressing for several weeks after the treatment. It’s crucial to adhere to your surgeon’s post-operative recommendations regarding bandage changes, cleaning the incision sites, and headband wear.
I graduated from Ankara University Medical School in 2005. The same year, i began to attend to six-year Plastic Surgery specialty training in İzmir at Ege University Medical School, Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. In 2011, I completed my specialty training. After that, i worked as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon for many hospitals such as Kars Government Hospital (2011-2013), Kocaeli Darıca Farabi Government Hospital (2014). I’ve done a lot of surgeries, which helped to improve myself. Afterwards in accordance with my personal characteristics and willing to finding a wider workspace, i began to work in Special Hospitals (Ankara Kudret International Special Hospital and Ankara Keçiören Special Hospital (2014-2015). Between 2015-2018 I worked as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon in Bodrum Acıbadem Special Hospital, which is biggest hospital group of Turkey. While working in Bodrum Acıbadem Special Hospital I had the opportunity operated both national and international patients. Dr. Candan Mezili is now working in private practice in his own office.
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