Is this normal or signs of infection after otoplasty ?

Question

Hi! I had otoplasty three days ago and still have that dressing. The first two days were fine, some discomfort but it wasn't anything out of the ordinary. Now on the third day my left ear began feeling swollen and hot. I can feel a tingling sensation and the ear throbbing. It doesn't hurt but I can still feel it being kinda hot, swollen, throbbing and tingle. But once again it doesn't hurt. Is this normal when the ear is healing or are these signs of infection? Or even worse, cauliflowerear?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately it is difficult to determine without a photograph or physical exam, but since your symptoms changed between the second and third days after surgery, I would speak with your surgeon about your concerns, so that you can be seen and evaluated to make sure an infection is not occurring.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

When one ear alone is acting up it could be an infection.  Best to go and have your doctor check this. We remove all ear and head dressings at 24 hour and have patients wear simple head bands.    This makes observation much easier.  My Best,  Dr C

Is this normal or signs of infection after otoplasty ?

Answers (2)