8 tips to follow after Otoplasty

Recovering from Otoplasty is often less intensive, as compared to other plastic surgery procedures. Despite the ease, the patient has to follow certain things which will help the recovery proceed smoothly and faster. This also helps in reducing the risk of developing complications.

If anyone is on the road to recovery post-otoplasty surgery, in just a few weeks, you will be enjoying the ear contour you always wished for. Wouldn’t it be great to finally show off your ears without the years of embarrassment?

Before you get to see the result of the procedure, you will have to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. Following them carefully will allow your ears to heal properly and help you recover faster.

Avoid rubbing or touching your ears

Generally, patients may experience some swelling and discomfort post-surgery, but that's completely normal. You will be able to function normally otherwise. However, be extra careful when touching your ears. You might accidentally or consciously touch your ears but try not to excessively rub or touch them. Follow this instruction for a couple of weeks to prevent damaging the ear incisions which can delay your recovery period. Further, it is recommended to sleep on your back, so that you do not put pressure on the ears.

If you have had setback Otoplasty, wear your headband

Immediately after your surgery, your ears will be covered by a bulky dressing. A few days later, this bulky dressing will be replaced with a headband which will be lighter. The headband is to protect your ears and to hold them in a proper position. It will depend on the surgery, how many days you have to keep the headband in place. Also, wear button-up shirts for a few weeks, so that getting dressed will not be worrisome.

If you see ear discharge, do not panic.

For a couple of days post-surgery, you will see a small amount of fluid to drain from your ears. The fluid can be dark or red-tinged and may be thick too. Do not panic, this is completely normal. If this happens, you can use hydrogen peroxide on a cotton swab to clean the ear part. Be careful of not entering the ear canal. Contact your surgeon, if the drainage is excessive.

Avoid scratching the incision lines.

Incision lines are generally itchy, which is a sign that they are healing. It is also a sign that the nerves are regenerating. So, make sure you avoid scratching them to prevent any damage. If itchiness is accompanied by discharge, redness or heat; notify your surgeon as this might be an infection.

For a few weeks, keep your head elevated

Swelling is a part of every surgical recovery process. It usually lasts for a month or two. Residual swelling may last up to six. To minimize swelling, keep your head elevated while you sleep. You can use a few pillows to elevate your head in this case. Avoid bending, when awake as it will increase the risk of bleeding.

Avoid extreme temperatures or prolonged sun exposure for a month or two.

For a few weeks, your ears will be numb. Owing to this, the ears won’t feel any sort of damage caused by prolonged sun exposure or extreme temperatures. Avoid using hair dryers to prevent burns. If you use ice packs, intermittent use is recommended to prevent frostbite. To prevent hyperpigmentation, avoid tanning.

Eat a healthy diet.

During recovery, it is very important to eat a healthy diet because your body needs vitamins and nutrients for proper healing. Few patients are uncomfortable to have harder solid foods in the first few days. If that is the case for you, you can switch to softer foods, juices or even smoothies.

Avoid smoking.

Smoking and being around people who smoke in your presence can greatly hamper your recovery process. Irregular scarring, poor healing and delayed recovery are some of the concerns. So, avoid smoking or being in the presence of cigarette smoke for at least a few weeks after your procedure.