How to Tell if Theres an Infection After Otoplasty?

It is not at all unusual for one ear to heal faster than the other after bilateral otoplasty.  The potential signs of an infection would be redness, tenderness, swelling and pain, with possible drainage.  A fever would also be indicative of a possible infection.  The light green crusting you describe does not sound like an infection.  There is really no way to know for certain if you have an infection or not without examining you.  Since you are concerned, I would contact your surgeon to discuss your issue and let him or her decide if you need to be seen.  

An infection usually manifests as pain and redness and sometimes drainage. It is best to be seen in person to be properly evaluated.

In medical school, physicians learn the classic signs of infection in Latin: "Rubor, Calor, Dolor, Tumor". These stand for redness, heat, pain, and swelling. If a surgical wound develops these signs beyond the 3rd day and they seem to be getting worse, chances are you might have an infection. Add to these signs a 5th sign, colored drainage (green, yellow, brown) and you've got your answer. See your doctor- you might benefit from a culture, an antibiotic, and wound care instructions. And don't fret...if treated early, you'll do great!