My Son is 14 and Needs Surgery for His Ears. How Long Before He Can Play Baseball? and Basketball?

This is a common and important question.

I typically recommend that patients undergoing this type of procedure avoid activities that could expose their recently operated ears to any trauma for at least 6 to 8 weeks. Also, a head band for the first two weeks following surgery is recommended.  I tell patients to think of it as a similar concept to using a retainer after orthodontic treatment (braces).

Return to activities and sports will depend on exactly what procedure is performed. For example, after otoplasty surgery, I ask patients to avoid any potential “contact sport” for at least 2 months after the procedure is performed. Your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with more specifics.

 Best wishes.

This is a question I get all the time and I typically schedule otoplasties after the ballplaying season is over but your son is both a baseball and basketball player! I would recommend waiting at least 8 weeks before resuming contact sports.