How long is down time for an otoplasty?

 In our practice, we ask patients to refrain from  vigorous exercise for at least 2 weeks after the procedure and contact sports for a month, so as not to rupture the sutures holding the cartilage in place on the ears. Anticipate the ears being swollen and red for approximately 2 weeks after the procedure.

The most common type of Otoplasty corrects
prominent ears. This is a same day
surgery. I do not put a lot of limitations on my patients after surgery. Most patients take it easy for 1-2 days but
can return to activities except for those that could result in an injury to the
ears such as basketball or football. I
ask patients to not put pressure on the ears such as lying on them for 1
month. I have them wear a headband over
the ears day and night for the first week and then nightly for three more
weeks. Patients will have swelling and bruising for 2-3 weeks usually. Ears will be very tender at first and the
patient may want to take a pain medication to sleep for the first couple of
days. Patients do really well after
Otoplasty and are pleased with their results