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

Question

Hi! How bad is it to get a hematoma after an otoplasty? Does it have to be drained immediately? I have read that there is a risk of fibrosis. What is your opinion? My surgery told me to come back after 10-14 days after this picture (picture was taken 15/11, surgery was 11/11). Is it too late? The technique he used was Stenströms. Best regards Peter

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

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

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

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.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

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.

Philip Young, MD · Answer

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.

Chase Lay, MD · Answer

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

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

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Answer: Otoplasty hematoma and the risks what should be done

Answer: Otoplasty hematoma and the risks what should be done

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Answer: Hematoma after otoplasty

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

Answers (7)

Answer: Otoplasty hematoma and the risks what should be done

Answer: Otoplasty hematoma and the risks what should be done

Answer: Hematoma after otoplasty

Answer: Hematoma after otoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Ear Surgery

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