Clogged ear after otoplasty?

Question

I had a bilateral otoplasty yesterday and today one of my ears feels clogged or stuffy. Is this normal? I can hear out of it, it just feels clogged like I have a bad cold. Is this normal?

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

This doesn't happen often but is most likely due to a small amount of blood that settled in your ear canal. This can be easily removed in the office. I would recommend calling your surgeon's office to schedule that ASAP. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Vaishali B. Doolabh, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi PSquestions. The feeling of being clogged up can be from irritation to the ear drum from blood or an antiseptic that is used to help cleanse before surgery. Other causes include pressure difference as a result of general anesthesia (like what happens on an airplane ascent or descent).  If it doesn't resolve soon, have a follow-up visit with your Plastic surgeon so that he or she may have a look with an otoscope. Good luck!

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It is possible that you may have had some blood in your ear during the procedure, and when this dries, it could cause a clogged feeling in the ear.  If you don't find that it is improving over time, you should contact your surgeon.  Alternatively, it could also be caused from some eustachian tube congestion, which should also improve over time.

Bryan Correa, MD · Answer

Sometimes fluid can get into the ear canal after surgery - e.g. blood or antiseptic fluid - making it feel the way you're describing, such as when you 'get water in your ear' in a pool. If it doesn't resolve on its own, be sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon and they can address it for you.I hope this helps!

Clogged ear after otoplasty?

Answers (4)

Answer: Stuffy feeling ear after otoplasty

Answer: Stuffy feeling ear after otoplasty

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Clogged ear after otoplasty?

Answers (4)

Answer: Stuffy feeling ear after otoplasty

Answer: Stuffy feeling ear after otoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.