Hematoma After Otoplasty- What Are The Risks? (photo)

I read your concern and reviewed your photo. I usually remove the bulky head-dressing from my otoplasty patients 24-48 hours post-op, check for a hematoma, and leave my patients with a head-band similar to yours. If your doctor examined your ear 2-3 days ago, and said it looked fine even though it looked bruised like in this photo, you'll probably be fine.

If there has been worsening pain, swelling and bruising of your left ear, since your operation, you may have developed a hematoma that could be drained in the office. An ear with a post-op hematoma is typically more painful than the other ear.

It's impossible to tell what's going on from the photo-alone. Since you have a concern, it would be best to visit your doctor as soon as possible for definitive evaluation and management.

Hope this helps.

Dr. Joseph

Thanks for the question. As all aesthetic operations, there is a risk of bleeding and infection in the early period. After  the healing process, asymmetry, irregularities and stitching problems seen very rare. I wish you all the best.

I would suggest seeing the doctor that did your procedure as soon as possible. It should be drained asap. If not the blood will form a scar in that area and it will look like the swelling if not removed. I would bring this up to the doctor again.

It's very important that a hematoma be drained and excess clots removed after an otoplasty if they occur.  Fibrosis is a real risk and difficult to treat.  Within seven days after surgery you really want your ear's contours to look as normal as possible.

Hope you had that addressed

Chase Lay, MD

It is important to differentiate bruising from a hematoma after otoplasty. Your picture is not clear enough to tell whether it is a hematoma or not. You should check with your surgeon promptly. If it is a hematoma it will need to be drained and a compression dressing applied so you do not develop a fibrosis problem. Unless it is weeks to months later, it is not to late to drain a hematoma.

Dear patient,

 

It is unclear for me to see whether or not it is a hematoma or just simple bruising based on your photos. If indeed it is a hematoma, you should see your physician as soon as possible so that it may be evaluated for possible drainage. If it is simple bruising, a combination of time and icing would be sufficient.

 

Thank you for the question.

Unfortunately, it is hard to tell based on your picture if you have a hematoma present or just ecchymosis ( bruising). If there is hematoma present  it should be drained (to prevent permanent deformity).

Hopefully,  you can approach your plastic surgeon again soon to discuss  your concerns.

Best wishes.