Post otoplasty results. My ears are too pinned back. Will they come back out a little bit? (Photo)

Question

I just had a bilateral otoplasty on Friday 4/22/16. I got re-wrapped today, saw my ears for the first time. They look good... however, it seems like they are almost TOO far back, TOO far pinned back against my head. I look totally different. Kind of in a good way and kind of in a bad way. question: will they adjust forward a little bit?? Will they settle back in to a more normal position? I will attach photos.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

It is completely normal to feel that your ears are over corrected at this point. Not only will they relax slightly with time but your ears have been basically pasted up against your scalp by the dressing that was just removed. Give this three weeks to three months to relax. I think that you will see a significant change during that timeframe. Best.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

After otoplasty or ear pinning, the ears are typically closer to the head than they should be, but they should correct to a proper position in a few more weeks.

Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH · Answer

Dear Jhankins18Your final healing result will not be seen for months.Keep following your surgeons instructions for dressings and care. yes,  you will see "settling" of the ears as the memory of the cartilage and healing change over the next months. Best  Wishes

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Jhankins18,Yes, they will settle back out farther.  Following otoplasty and having the headwrap on, the ears look over corrected.  Once the wrap is off for a little bit you will notice the ears come out just a little bit more to a more natural position.  COnitnue to follow up with your surgeon, but I would not be worried at this point.I hope this helps and good luck.

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

When the dressings are first removed the ears will appear to have been over corrected or too close to the head, but in time they begin to assume their new position.  In general it takes at least a couple of months to appreciate the ears without a substantial amount of swelling.  With any surgery, it takes time for healing to be completed, so do not try to evaluate the results too early.  Good luck and I hope you enjoy your outcome!

Inessa Fishman, MD · Answer

It's common and normal for the ears to look "plastered" against the head immediately after otoplasty; they typically swing out a few millimeters after the dressing are removed, and swelling resolves.  Your photos suggest a very nice result, and an appropriate amount of swelling for your recovery timeline.  As you heal and swelling resolves, you will see the final shape of your ears; try not to judge the results of surgery too soon, keep in close touch with your surgeon, and good luck in your recovery.

Post otoplasty results. My ears are too pinned back. Will they come back out a little bit? (Photo)

Answers (6)