Large and swollen ear lobes one week out? (Photo)

Question

One week post op on a face lift and last night my ear lobes swelled up - they are huge. Was not like this before. They also itch. The stitches were removed three days ago. Is this swelling just moving down or should I really be concerned? I had small ears before but these lobes really concern me. My Dr. in NY is out of town.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

I would recommend that you follow-up with your surgeon for an examination. Swelling should improve with time and if you are suddenly experiencing increased swelling this warrants an examination. You may have a reaction to a topical medication, tape, etc or early infection that should be addressed.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Swelling anywhere in the vicinity of the facelift is fairly common. I don't see any problem with the situation as presented in the photograph. You should have access to your surgeon or a surrogate for personal examination

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  This most likely represents swelling from the surgery.  This should improve.  If it is not and/or getting worse contact your surgeon's office to see who he or she has designated to take care patient's in his or her absence.

Mark Been, MD · Answer

At one week after surgery most of my patients have some expected swelling of their earlobes; however, this normally begins a day or two after the procedure, not at one week. Make sure to call your surgeon for an in-person evaluation.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

Earlobes along with the rest of your face are puffy after a facelift. That they suddenly get swollen a week after surgery is uncommon and deserves your surgeon's evaluation.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It can be alarming when swelling like this happens overnight, it could be normal or it might be the start of an infection.  I would contact your surgeon to be completely sure. Good luck.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

I have seen similar swelling in a couple of patients at about a week - but not usually this pronounced!  You have to think about possible infection, or allergy.  The itching makes me wonder if you are allergic to a cream  you are using? New antibiotic ointment??  Take some benadryl, and see your doctor for possible antibiotics or steroid pills.

Mark Hamilton, MD · Answer

While that is impressive, it is not unusual-because incisions are made all the way around the ear lobule, they tend to swell a lotand stay swollen for several weeks. Fortunately, this does resolve with time and the earlobes return tonormal size. Continue with good wound care, take it easy, keep your head elevated and stay in close contact with your surgeon-

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The earlobe will sometimes swell like this after facelift surgery. It will resolve with some more time. Check w/ your surgeon to be sure there are no other healing issues. Best wishes.

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

Earlobes should not become significantly larger after facelift surgery, especially one week after surgery. Swelling that increases after surgery can be due to multiple factors, such allergic reaction or infection. You should contact your plastic surgeon for him/her to evaluate you.Best,Dr .Chaboki

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Large and swollen ear lobes one week out? (Photo)

Answers (18)

FACELIFT PROVIDERS NEAR YOU