Does ear cartilage harvesting for rhinoplasty affect your ability to wear earbud headphones? How much pain can I expect? (Photo)

Question

I'm having a revision soon and my surgeon will need to use cartilage from one or both ears. I'm concerned this will affect my ability to wear earbuds after it heals because they are held in place by what looks like the rim of the conchal bowl. Is enough structure maintained there? I'm also nervous because if you search this site it sounds like the ear hurts more than the nose. What should I reasonably expect?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear CakemistIf done in typical fashion, you should not have any problems with using earbuds once the area has healed. The scar in this area usually heals very well and is not tender. The cartilage removed should not effect the earbud support.You should direct this question to your surgeon prior to surgery so he can give an answer that applies specifically to your case and the technique that he will use. Best of luck with your surgery!!!

Lee Kleiman, MD · Answer

The ear after harvestation of conchal ear cartilage causes no major aesthetic or functional side effects.  In the short term the ear is more painful than the nose due to compression bolster dressings that are sewn to the ear for up to a week.  This is performed  to prevent blood collection and a cauliflower ear deformity.  You will be able to wear your ear buds without problems within 2 weeks.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The harvesting of your cartilage occurs behind the ear  and it really has no detrimental affect of the shape of the ear, so head phones can certainly be worn afterwards. Ears  tend to be a bit tender for the first few weeks after the harvesting procedure.

Adam Hamawy, MD · Answer

The ear cartilage when harvested should be removed from the flat part of the ear cartilage that is against the side of the skull not the portion that projects out and gives shape.  If ear cartilage is harvested properly, the structure should be maintained and it will not hinder the ability to wear ear plugs.  It is normal to be a little sore in the area but it really shouldn't be very painful.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Preferences for ear cartilage harvesting will vary from surgeon to surgeon and also depending upon what is needed.  Best to ask your surgeon.

Andrew Kornstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Ear cartilage, like any plastic surgical procedure, has nuances between different surgeons and that includes  post op pain as well as the fit of your earbuds.In my experience it is not painful(no significant complaints from patients)and you should specifically discuss the areas harvested with respect to your ear buds with your surgeon.Hope this helps

Does ear cartilage harvesting for rhinoplasty affect your ability to wear earbud headphones? How much pain can I expect? (Photo)

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