How long is down time for an otoplasty?

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

I would recommend you wait 1 week before participating in non-contact
sports. You should wait at least 6-8 weeks before playing any contact sports
such as rugby.