Plastic Surgeon Questions Plastic Surgeon

What is the recovery for otolarynology plastic surgery?

I am a 28 year old female. I want to have plastic surgery on my ears. What is the recovery for otolarynology plastic surgery?

10 Answers

The swelling and bruising after otoplasty generally subsides after approximately two weeks. However one should wear a headband while sleeping for 6 to 8 weeks to avoid inadvertent pulling forward on the ear which can disrupt the sutures
Otoplasty typically allows patients to return to work in a week, but I keep my patients in a headband (any headband they choose is fine) for 2-4 weeks afterward.
You are describing otoplasty, an operation to treat prominent ears. Recovery from this operation is usually 1 to 2 weeks to allow swelling to settle down, but most patients are able to return to work within one week.
Do you mean otoplasty, which is ear tacking? Short term recovery is 5-7 days, with a head strap for three weeks.
The recovery time is typically about two weeks. The first couple days being the most uncomfortable.
As an Otolaryngologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon, I perform ear-shaping otoplasty surgery, earlobe reductions and earlobe piercing repairs, and excision of keloids and various bumps from the ears. Otoplasty recovery is typically 3-5+ days of noticeable swelling and a few days of soreness and discomfort, while earlobe reductions and piercing repairs involve a day or two or soreness and minimal swelling. Considering consulting with a Facial Plastic Surgeon or Plastic Surgeon to get a customized treatment plan and discussion of recovery expectations.
The recovery is usually about 1 week. Get a full consultation for all the details.
I assume you want your ears pinned back or an otoplasty. The recovery in my hands is a few days, less than a week.

William B. Rosenblatt, M.D.
Thank you for the question. There are multiple factors that can influence the healing time, such as type and complexity of the procedure, if the patient smokes, if the patient is on anticoagulation medication, or any medication that could affect healing, such as steroids. In the case of prominent ears, just speculating, the time is around 3 to 4 weeks. In the case of a rhinoplasty, nose surgery, about 6-8 weeks. It is always good to discuss these questions with your treating surgeon.
Good luck with your surgery. All the best.

Luis A. Laurentin-Perez, MD PhD.
Otoplasty can be performed many ways, some of which last longer than others. Usually the initial results are noted within a week, when you can return to most jobs, but the final results take 6-12 weeks.