After otoplasty, my ears are still really numb. Should I be worried? (Photo)

Question

It's been a week since my otoplasty surgery and I got my bandages removed 2 days ago, yet my ears are still really numb. Whenever I touch them it's like I'm not touching my own skin. Should I be worried? Or call off from work? It also hurts a little.

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

Don't dispair! numbness one week out of surgery is very common.  It can take a few weeks to months to get the sensation back.  During this healing time, be aware that you have poor sensation in those areas.  Therefore, be careful with extreme hot and cold for the next few weeks.  Any concerns or issues can be brought up with your PS during follow up as they arise.  Best of luck!

Justin C. Cohen, MD, FACS · Answer

No need to worry. The nerves that allow your ear skin to feel can take quite a while to recover from surgery, sometimes weeks to months. Severe pain, increased swelling, redness, and drainage from the incisions would all be cause to notify your surgeon.

Inessa Fishman, MD · Answer

Numbness and decreased sensation are common and expected around any incision, and after ear surgery; this numbness results from sensory nerves being disrupted, and a few weeks-months are required for these nerves to reconnect and function again.  As the sensory nerves function again, you may notice extra itching or "phantom" sensations at the affected areas.  Some tenderness at the operated areas is also expected, and should decrease and resolve over the next few days-weeks.  Keep in touch with your surgeon, and good luck in your recovery!

John Harbison, MD · Answer

Numbness is very common after undergoing otoplasty.  At only a week out, I would not be worried.  It can take weeks to months for the nerves to heal.  It is important to be careful if using a hair dryer, etc as you can burn your ears without knowing it.  If there is no feeling after a couple of months (which would be rare) be sure to contact your surgeon.

Jacob D. Steiger, MD · Answer

Numbness of your ears is common after otoplasty. This should get better with time and usually resolves within 6 months. the main thing to look out for is any kind of severe pain which is not normal this far out after otoplasty. Contact your surgeon to have an exam if you have any concerns.

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