Otoplasty involves the reshaping or reshaping of the outer ear, or pinna, to correct an abnormality and improve the appearance and function. A typical ear is around two centimeters apart from the side of the head. However, it is annoying to some people if the ears are larger than they should be. An otoplasty or ear surgery may also be appropriate for those with damaged ears or congenital anomalies. Using this method, you can build up or repair the outer ear, resulting in a better appearance.
Certain patients and parents might be concerned regarding pain or discomfort, or about how long it will take for their child to recover. When you meet with your otoplasty surgeon for your preliminary consultation, you will be able to eliminate any misconceptions and get all your questions answered. But if you are thinking of getting your child or yourself an otoplasty, you should first learn about the recovery process to gain more insight on the fastest way to recover from it.
Do’s after otoplasty or ear surgery procedure
The most important thing to remember after undergoing an otoplasty procedure is that every situation is different, so it’s important to adhere to all specific aftercare instructions given by your surgeon. They will examine your ears carefully before the surgery and explain each step of the procedure to you. The procedure will most likely be performed under a local anesthetic unless specified by your surgeon, which means that you will not feel anything in your ears while awake.
You should arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure because feeling groggy or drowsy is a common side effect of anesthesia.
In general, the following instructions should be followed after your operation:
Elevate your head
When you are resting, have a set of comfortable pillows with you so you can support your head in an upward position. You must elevate your head to facilitate proper blood flow. It is perfectly normal to experience some swelling in the days following the procedure, but keeping your head lifted will help prevent excessive redness and inflammation.
Maintain a Dry and Cool Head During Recovery
You should keep your head cool and dry during the recuperation period since you’ll have to wear bandages to keep your ears in place. Don’t use a blow dryer or any other heated styling tools. After the procedure, you will experience numbness in your ears, so you won’t have an idea of any potential damage caused by extreme heat. This can do irreparable damage to your ears. You may apply an ice pack periodically if your ears start to feel too warm or if you feel any pain from the swelling, but don’t leave it on too long so that your ears don’t get frostbitten.
Wear clothing that can easily be removed
While recovering from otoplasty or ear surgery, pulling shirts over your head would cause your incisions to irritate or damage, so button down shirts are highly recommended.
Wear Surgical Dressings and Headbands as Directed
Always keep the provided dressings and headbands clean, dry, and cool and follow your otoplasty surgeon’s directions carefully. Following an otoplasty procedure, dressings and headbands are used to hold your ears in place. Removing or shifting them could interfere with healing, put you at risk of infection, or damage your ears.
Make Healthy Eating a Priority
You must maintain a healthy diet in order to facilitate a faster and more effective recovery from ear surgery. For your body to heal faster, you need certain nutrients and vitamins. You may have trouble chewing solid foods at first. You can choose to eat softer foods or smoothies that are rich in nutrients if this is the case.
Religiously follow your physician’s instructions
After your otoplasty, your physician will prescribe certain medications to help ease your discomfort and reduce swelling. To prevent forgetting to take these medications, make sure you set a reminder to take them exactly as directed.
Don’ts after otoplasty or ear surgery procedure
Stop or significantly reduce smoking tobacco products
Since smoking can seriously hinder the recovery process by preventing proper blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body, if you haven’t already quit, you should do so now.
Don’t use shampoo for the first few days
During the first week, you should avoid washing your hair completely. Fresh incisions can become irritated by shampoo and other hair products, preventing optimal healing.
Don’t lift anything heavy
In spite of the fact that otoplasty is typically an elective procedure, it is still a major surgical procedure that needs proper recovery time. Avoid strenuous activities such as lifting heavy objects and exercising during this time.
How can we help
If you plan to undergo a ear surgery or otoplasty procedure in Miami soon, don’t hesitate to book a FREE consultation or visit our plastic surgery locations in Miami, FL, Fort Lauderdale, FL
