Contact Us 713.322.7265

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What should you expect during ear surgery recovery?

What should you expect during ear surgery recovery? | HoustonThe recovery process signifies a vital part of any surgical process, including ear reshaping plastic surgery (otoplasty). During the recovery period, the patient should undertake all precautions to enjoy a safe and predictable healing process. 

The surgeon will offer the patient information on the approximate downtime, post-op care, maintenance of surgical drains, and usual post-surgical symptoms, and indications of possible complications. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides otoplasty to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

Initial Post-Operative Stage

Following otoplasty surgery, the patient will have dressing wrapped around their ears. After the surgeon evaluates the incision sites, they will replace this bulky bandage with a lighter dressing. The patient should ensure that the dressing stays in place unless instructed otherwise by the plastic surgeon.

The patient will typically be able to go back home from the surgical facility on the same day. However, they should ask a responsible person to drive them back home after their otoplasty procedure. 

The surgeon may prescribe mild pain drugs to allow the patient to remain comfortable for the initial few days after their ear surgery.

 

Recovery Duration

Ideally, the patient should ask someone to offer them assistance at home, for at least the initial 24 hours following the cosmetic surgery

In the initial week after the procedure, the patient should get adequate rest but undertake mild walks and light activities within their home to enhance the blood flow to the incision sites.

In order to manage the discomfort, the patient should keep their head in a raised position. They should avoid resting their head on the treated ear to prevent throbbing and pain. The surgeon will inform the patient on the time of the bandage removal and may prescribe an antibiotic cream for the incision areas. 

In nearly one week after the ear reshaping surgery, the patient will need to visit the surgeon’s office for removal of drains and sutures. The process of recovery will differ between patients. However, most patients can return to their normal routine in around one week. 

The final results of the procedure will begin to become apparent in around two weeks. But minor improvements in the ear(s) may continue to happen for up to a year. 

 

Sustainability of Results

For a specified period before and after otoplasty, patients should refrain from smoking and taking certain drugs, such as blood-thinning medications. This will reduce the risk of slow healing and aid in the recovery process. The outcomes of ear surgery usually sustain for the patient’s entire lifetime, unless there are any incidents that impact the ear size and shape.

It is important for patients to visit the surgeon for their scheduled follow-up appointments and exams in a responsible manner. If they notice any abnormal changes or other symptoms, they should immediately contact their plastic surgeon.

 

Choose a Balanced Diet 

A balanced diet consists of vital nutrients that offer strength to the immune system and mitigate the risk of infection for a safe recovery process. The patients should consume adequate amounts of lean protein such as eggs, fish, yogurt, and light cheese for faster recovery after their otoplasty procedure. 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.