I'm a naval aviator interested in otoplasty, what would my recovery time be?

For adults, otoplasty procedures are same-day surgeries performed in a surgery-center or office-based surgical setting.  Typically, general anesthesia is not needed.  We wrap patients with a head bandage overnight and then encourage a conventional head band (like an athletic sweatband) to be worn at night for a couple of weeks.  The ear is relatively fragile for the first 10-14 days.  Therefore, I would not recommend wearing a helmet for at least 2 weeks.  The barotrauma or altitude will have no impact on the procedure's outcome.Good luck and thank you for your service!

There are many different techniques for otoplasty, but most of them will leave your ears sore for a few weeks, especially if you need to wear a helmet over them.  I would figure on two to three weeks.

Hi. Prominent
ear correction is a simple day surgery procedure. Afterwards there is a big
head bandage, like a turban, that needs to stay on and be kept clean and dry
for a week. After 7-10 days you should be able to return to normal everyday activities and work (no sport for 2-3 weeks).

Allowing enough time for recovery is an important determinant of the final outcome following surgery. Give yourself at least 10 to 14 days before exercising and before applying undue pressure to the surgical site.

    The main risk would occur from the helmet disrupting the sutures.  As long as you are careful when placing the helmet,  you can return in a week or two.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA