I have had my ear cartilage harvested for a revision rhinoplasty. How is my ear healing? (Photo)

Question

I hit it with a pillow 3 days out and am a bit concerned I caused cauliflower ear. Also does it look like it will it heal symmetrically with my other cartilage harvest ear. It feels extremely sensitive and swollen and about 1 - 1 1/2 inches further out than my other ear; is this normal?

Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH · Answer

Dear t kongThanks for the photos. The best way to tell if you have an infection or hematoma is to see your surgeon in person. Call to make an appointment.If the redness is more swollen and sensitive this week than last, make that appointment soon (as antibiotics may be suggested depending on the inperson examination by your doctor.  This is not consistent with Cauliflower ear, which is a long term complication of chondritis.Cauliflower ear is caused by fluid (blood or seroma) that is caught between the layers of your skin on the front and back of the ear.When the cartilage cannot get its nutrition from the cartilage lining (filled with blood vessels), the cartilage becomes inflammed and is at risk for slowing losing viability.  The end-stage result of that situation is a firm, irregular shaped ear, which can resemble a head of a cauliflower. Best Wishes.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

The only way to know if you are healing is to see your surgeon.  An exam is needed to rule out infection and hematoma.  Best wishes!

I have had my ear cartilage harvested for a revision rhinoplasty. How is my ear healing? (Photo)

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I have had my ear cartilage harvested for a revision rhinoplasty. How is my ear healing? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.