Weird smell on the bottom of the back of my ear. Could this be an infection? (Photo)

Question

It's been 10 months since my otoplasty and lately I've noticed I've been developing a weird smell on my left ear. Could this be an infection? And if so what would happen to the sutures inside? It taken out would my ear go back to portruding?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Anthony,
any foul smell or discharge form the wound is a sign of infection. You should visit your plastic surgeon for a consultation.
Dr. Daniel BarrettPlastic Surgery

Robert H. Woods, MD · Answer

It is a bit hard to tell based on the picture, but this does not look like an infection. It may be a reaction to the deep stitches which were placed to recreated the natural fold in your ear. Taking these out would not necessarily cause the ear to unfold unless the scar tissue needed to be removed which is now holding it together. Would have to redo the stitching if that is the case. However, it looks like this is a hypertrophic scar developing and can be treated with injected steroids or excision under a local anesthetic.

Talmage J. Raine, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

It is not uncommon to develop some excess skin slough along the back of the ear after surgery of any kind in that area. Just take a clean wash cloth with soap and water and you can remove it periodically. The permanent sutures should be far from this area. You should touch base with your surgeon.All the best,Talmage Raine MD

Weird smell on the bottom of the back of my ear. Could this be an infection? (Photo)

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Weird smell on the bottom of the back of my ear. Could this be an infection? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

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