Ear surgery

Alternative names:

otoplasty; pin back otoplasty

Expectations after surgery:

The ears are covered with a bulky, moderate pressure dressing following surgery. There is some tenderness and discomfort that is easily controlled by medication. If the surgery is done in a hospital, release is usually the same day or the day after the operation.

Convalescence:

Within 2 to 4 days, the outer pressure dressings are removed but the patient is asked to wear a light head dressing for 2 to 3 weeks to promote healing. Faint scars are concealed in the flexion creases behind the ears; there are no incisions in front of the ears. The decision on when to return to school or work and normal activities depends on how fast healing occurs.