Post-Operative Care

The patient can expect swelling of the ears and some discoloration. Patients are to leave the dressing in place until returning to the office for the first post operative visit. One may sit in a bath tub but it is best not to try to shower before the dressing is removed.

Once the dressing has been removed, you may wish to apply Vaseline ointment to the suture lines to inhibit further crust formation. You may begin walking as soon as you feel able, but all lifting, straining and other vigorous activity is to be avoided until all bruises have faded. The best rule of thumb is to avoid any activity that causes you discomfort and to enjoy those that do not. Most patients are pleasantly surprised to discover the relatively mild degree of post-operative discomfort. The patient is requested to call the office if the discomfort is not readily quelled by the pain pills, or if significant bleeding appears around the incisions. Some drainage, particularly behind the ears, is normal for a few weeks. Sutures are usually removed four to ten days post-operatively, but can be left in place, as they are absorbable, if a patient is particularly squeamish about suture removal.

Once the dressing has been removed, it is advisable to wear a sweat band around the ears, the type of band over the forehead and ears that tennis players frequently wear. This will protect the ears from inadvertently being pulled away from the head, particularly by a pillow while sleeping.