Surgical otoplasty recovery
Initial recovery from surgical otoplasty will take between 1 and 2 weeks. Following the procedure, patients may experience mild bruising and redness, as well as swelling and numbness of the ear(s). These will gradually resolve over the first few weeks after surgery.
For young children, a protective head band is recommended while sleeping for the first three weeks and continuously during this time. Any situation where there is potential for a blow to the ear (e.g. basketball, wrestling) should be avoided for six weeks following surgery. Young children should also understand that they cannot touch their ears during recovery. Final results are apparent in about three weeks, and results are permanent.