1 month post otoplasty, when can I exercise?

Question

When can I start go to gym, swimming, and running after otoplasty? I'm a month after my surgery... And I'm crazy without sports!!

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

I would definitely ask this question of your surgeon and follow his or her instructions. In most cases, I would think that you should be able to exercise a month after your otoplasty. But again, check with your surgeon just to make sure.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Your surgery is generally too invasive. It is important to minimize manipulation around the ear to avoid ripping out sutures thus diminishing the postoperative result. I say to my patients that they can start exercising after a day or so as long as they do not "bare down", holding their breath while they're extremely straining to lift heavy weights and lying down to do stomach exercise etc. What is important, however, is to don a ski cap or headband to keep the ears closely pressed against the head while you were sleeping. This is to prevent inadvertent separation of the sutures when turning her head on the pillow while sleeping. You must wear this for approximately 6 weeks.

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. After 6 weeks your surgery area is totally healed and yes you can do gym, swimming and also do other activities. I wish you all the best.

Shahriar Mabourakh, MD, FACS · Answer

I like to have patients wear ear protection for one month after ear surgery. I release my patients to no contact sports at one month and contact sports at 6 to eight weeks. You should discuss your activity level with your surgeon

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

One month postop, I would not see contraindications to exercising. The only thing I would encourage you to delay would be full contact sports. However, as in all procedures, you should defer to the recommendation of your plastic surgeon.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

At one month after your otoplasty surgery, you should be able to return to any non-contact sporting activity. I would wait a full three months before participating in sports where you have to wear a helmet or have a high likelihood of sustaining trauma to the ears.

Andrew Winkler, MD · Answer

The time when you can begin exercising again depends on what specifically was done during your Otoplasty procedure.  I'd recommend contacting your surgeon and asking what he/she recommends.  

	However, I typically ask my patients to refrain from vigorous exercise for 2 weeks.  That is because they could develop a Seroma, or fluid collection, under the skin of the ear.  Seromas can be difficult to treat.  After that, they may begin exercising again. Obviously, its wise to avoid sports in which you could injure the ear, like basketball, football or boxing, but running or swimming should be safe at 1 month.

1 month post otoplasty, when can I exercise?

Answers (7)

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