How to Make the Most Out of Your Otoplasty Recovery

How to Make the Most Out of Your Otoplasty Recovery

Otoplasty remains a frequently performed cosmetic procedure at Dr. Shahidi’s office. Those who suffer from ears which stick out or which are misshapen will greatly value the outstanding results this procedure yields. These patients are often amazed at how much this surgery can alter the overall appearance of the face.

If you’re interested in having your own Otoplasty, recovery time is probably one of your top concerns. The good news is that, in most cases, you won’t have to spend an excessive amount of time healing after the surgery has been completed. Take a look below to learn exactly what you should expect when it comes to your procedure recovery timeline.

Learning More About Your Otoplasty Recovery Time

In most cases, you can expect your Otoplasty recovery time to be at least 6 weeks. However, you’ll begin to notice significant improvements in the appearance of your ears in just 2 or 3 weeks.

Your Otoplasty recovery schedule is likely to be similar to the following:

• After Surgery to Day 1: You will experience localised pain and swelling in and around your ears. In most cases, you will wear a compression garment to keep your ears covered and protected. Ensure that you take any prescriptions your doctor may have given you – including antibiotics if necessary.

• Day 1 to Day 7: You should keep your recovery headband around your ears within the first few days post-surgery. By the third day, a significant amount of the initial Otoplasty swelling will have subsided. Much of the associated pain should diminish as well.

• Week 1 -2: Swelling will continue to diminish. Many patients opt to return to work or school around day 10. However, this may vary based on the type of work, your specific level of swelling, and other related factors. Dr Shahidi will ask you to wear a headband at night for 6 weeks.

• After 3 Months: You should expect to have most the swelling gone by the 3-month milestone. Continue to follow-up with your doctor to ensure that everything is in proper order beyond this stage.

• After 1 Year: Some patients may take a little longer to fully heal. By the end of the first year, your ears should be completely healed and looking great.

Remember, the exact results will vary based on multiple personal factors. These include your own health and constitution, your age, the exact details of your Otoplasty, among others.

Learn How to Sleep After Otoplasty

Another common question people ask when considering this procedure is, “how do I sleep after an Otoplasty?” Your ears are connected to your head, after all. You need to make sure you don’t accidentally inhibit your healing while you’re fast asleep.

Follow these Otoplasty aftercare tips to achieve a great night’s sleep without interfering with your healing:

• First Day After the Surgery

You’ll want to stay in bed for at least 24 hours once you arrive home from the surgery. You should keep your head upright and elevated to help diminish the swelling. Avoid lying on your sides as this will cause undue pressure on your ears.

• First Two Weeks

Your doctor will likely recommend you wear an Otoplasty recovery headband as compression for the first few weeks. This will keep your ears protected to facilitate better healing. During this period, avoid sleeping on your sides as much as possible. You should sleep on your back to keep your ears stable.

• Six Weeks

Most surgeons will recommend that you continue to wear your headband at night while you sleep. Try to sleep on your back whenever possible, but occasionally sleeping on your sides should not be a major problem at this stage.

• Four Months

By this point, your ears should be fully healed and you can sleep comfortably in any position.

These results may vary based on your own treatment plan and healing. As always, consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

Get Started with Your Otoplasty Consultation Today

Most Otoplasty aftercare and recovery processes are fairly simple, without major pain and discomfort. Most patients who elect this procedure enjoy outstanding results. You can see these results on our before and after Otoplasty page.

To learn more about Otoplasty, contact Dr. Shahidi’s office today. He and his team will be happy to explain everything you need to know about the procedure. That way, you can decide for yourself if this procedure is the right choice for you.