How long does swelling last after ear lobe surgery?

Question

I had ear lobe split surgery almost 3 weeks ago, the wound has healed well but the earlobe itself is still quite swollen. Is this normal? How long does swelling last?

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

The swelling typically resolves during the first week after surgery. I would have your surgeon check to make sure that the ear lobe is not infected, or there is any retained suture that may be causing irritation.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Swelling after surgery can be variable.  It can last for weeks to months.

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

The swelling normally would be down by now. The best thing to do is to see your surgeon and make sure there is nothing wrong.

Raymond E. Lee, MD · Answer

At three weeks most of the swelling should be gone.  In fact, at this time skin contraction initiates and you will see the incisions improve and the overall area of surgery start to contract this week.  Of course healing varies and earlobe repairs are different depending on how extensive it needed to be.  You should check in with your surgeon to make sure you are healing in the right path.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

It is common to have some swelling of the earlobe for several days after split earlobe repair.When I see my patients back one week after their procedure, usually almost all of the swelling is gone. Without a photo of you earlobe it is difficult to say exactly what is going on. You may wish to discuss this with the surgeon that repaired your earlobe, as he/she will be able to evaluate your earlobe and let you know if everything is healing up appropriately.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

I would agree that you should visit with your surgeon, but typically the swelling has resolved by 3 weeks with this procedure. That does not necessarily mean anything is wrong. The wound healing process can go on for quite some time, and it may be just the scar trying to mature. Often simple massage of the scar can help this process.

How long does swelling last after ear lobe surgery?

Answers (6)

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