Bleeding after otoplasty. Is this normal?

Question

I had otoplasty over 60 hours ago. Around 6 hours post op I felt blood trickle down my neck from my right ear from under my bandage, I wiper it for a couple of minutes until it stopped. Now I am around 60 hours post op I can feel the same thing under my bandage for my left ear, if I put my finger under the bandage there is damp blood on my finger. Is this normal ? Has anyone else experienced this ? I was planning on removing my bandages tomorrow but I am a little worried now. Thanks in advance

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

A small amount of bleeding after otoplasty is acceptable in certain cases when the wound has not been completely closed.  Some surgeon's leave a small area open for egress of any excess blood, so it does not accumulate underneath the skin.  The biggest concern is a hematoma formation, which is collection of blood underneath the skin as he can impede and delay the healing process, usually there is significant amount of pain associated with that and requires immediate attention.  A small amount of blood that does not continue to bleed and does not cause any significant pain is usually not of concern.RegardsDr. J

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Usually you dont bleed t hat many hours after surgery. You may want to contact your doctor and see what is going and maybe you need to go in an have them look at you.

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello macky_2007,Thanks for your question.Bleeding after otoplasty is not common.I suggest you see your surgeon before you remove your dressing for an exam and management.Good luck,Dr. Shah

Luis A. Cenedese, MD, FACS · Answer

Anytime the skin is incised even when shaving there may be bleeding for several days depending on how fast the wound heals. Infection, scarring and numbness are common sequelae of surgery.Please use this information when consulting with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Mark Mitchell Jones, MD · Answer

Typically it is not normal for bleeding to occur. However, it is always best to reach out to the operating surgeon with questions of this nature, to ensure no hematoma has occured.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Bleeding is typically minimal after otoplasty. If you are scheduled to remove the bandage then you should contact your surgeon with your concerns. I typically see my patients in the office to remove the bandage and ensure they are healing properly at this point. Best.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Mark Mandell-Brown, MD · Answer

Make sure you are not on Aspirin or Advil.   That promotes bleeding.   I would reccomend that you follow up with your surgeon.   We prefer to take off bandages in the office. Hope that helps

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