My son had otoplasty surgery yesterday. Is this normal? (Photo)

Question

My son had otoplasty surgery yesterday. He had some bloodly discharge after surgery but about 24 hours post op he started bleeding profusely from the back of his right ear. I have been having to change the gauze behind his ear every hour because of it being saturated. I called the children's ent clinic and spoke with the nurse and she said to cont with the gauze and to wear the ear cups to try to form a pressure bandage (which I have been doing all along). Is this normal?

Sean R. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

A little bit of bleeding following otoplasty is normal. However, what you describe seems to be more then what is typical. You should visit with the operating surgeon and have him take a look.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  If you have had persistent bleeding despite the use of pressure you should call the office back and asked for your child to be seen immediately.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Cashmore83,It is expected to have a little bit of oozing after surgery.  What you are describing is significantly more than would be expected.  If blood collects under the ear (called a hematoma), it can have a disastrous cosmetic result.  I would call your surgeon today to be seen.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Call the operating surgeon for any bleeding after the surgery. The operating surgeon should examine the child today (NOW). a hematoma of the ear is not good and needs to be dealt with immediately.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problem your son is experiencing.  No, I would not say that this amount of drainage/bleeding is normal. I would suggest that you contact your plastic surgeon directly now and  inform him/her of the situation. Best wishes.

EAR SURGERY PROVIDERS NEAR YOU

My son had otoplasty surgery yesterday. Is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (5)

EAR SURGERY PROVIDERS NEAR YOU