What to Expect When Having an Otoplasty

Anesthesia: General. You will sleep through the entire procedure.

Location of Operation: Hospital, outpatient surgery center or an office-based surgical suite.

Length of Surgery: 45 minutes per ear.

Length of Stay: This is done on an outpatient basis.

Discomfort: Mild to moderate, but is controlled with 2-4 days of prescription pain medication. Some patients are comfortable after taking just Tylenol or Motrin.

Swelling and Bruising: Both are expected, but will improve within 10-14 days.

Numbness: If present, resolves within 4-6 weeks.

Bandages: A head bandage is worn up to 1 week, followed by a headband for one month, particularly at night.

Stitches: All stitches are dissolvable and within the hair-bearing scalp.

Presentable in Public: 1 week.

Work: Can return to work or school in 1 week or less.

Exercise: Avoid excessive exercise for 4 weeks, light exercise may be resolved in 2 weeks.

Sun Protection: If your scar is exposed while you are outdoors, you should protect it with sunscreen SPF or higher for at least one year to prevent permanent discoloration.

Final Result: Seen in 4-6 weeks.

Special Care: SMOKING IS NOT RECOMMENDED with any type of surgery due to the effects on the healing process.

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