Recovery from otoplasty is usually straightforward. A head bandage is worn for around a week, after which most adults return to work and social life, wearing a soft headband at night for about six weeks to protect the ears. Swelling and tenderness settle over several weeks, and the scar behind the ear matures over 12 months or more.
Straight after surgery
Most adult otoplasty is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you can usually go home the same day. A padded head bandage is applied to support the new shape and reduce swelling. As the local anaesthetic wears off, the ears typically ache or throb for the first day or two; this is usually controlled with the painkillers recommended by the team. Rest with your head raised on pillows and avoid lying directly on your ears. You will need someone to take you home, as you should not drive with a bulky head bandage.
The first week
- Bandage: keep the head bandage clean, dry and in place until your review, usually around five to seven days after surgery.
- Hair washing: you will not be able to wash your hair until the bandage is removed; dry shampoo can help.
- Sleep: sleep on your back with the head elevated; a travel pillow can stop you rolling on to your side.
- Activity: gentle walking is encouraged, but avoid bending, heavy lifting and anything that might knock the ears.
Some patients find the ears feel tight or itchy under the bandage. Increasing pain, particularly on one side, should be reported rather than put up with.
Bandage removal and the headband phase
At your first review the bandage is removed and the ears are checked. They will look swollen, may be bruised and can appear slightly over-corrected at first; this usually softens as swelling settles. Any non-dissolvable stitches are removed around this time. You will then wear a soft, broad elastic headband, typically day and night for a short period and then at night only for about six weeks. The headband protects the ears from being folded forward while you sleep, which could stretch the correction.
Returning to work, driving and exercise
Many adults return to office work around a week after surgery, once the bandage is off, and can wear their hair loose to cover the ears if they wish. Driving is usually possible once the bandage is removed and you can check your mirrors comfortably. Light exercise can resume after about two weeks. Contact sports, martial arts and activities where the ears may be struck or pulled should be avoided for at least six to eight weeks, and swimming is delayed until the wounds are fully healed.
Weeks six to twelve months
The ears remain a little tender, numb or sensitive to cold for several weeks and occasionally longer. Swelling gradually resolves over about three months, and the shape settles further during the first year. The scar sits in the crease behind the ear, where it is naturally hidden; it starts pink and slightly raised and then flattens and fades over 12 to 18 months. Once healed, gentle massage and silicone gel may help, and sun protection is sensible if the scar is exposed.
Warning signs
Contact the surgical team urgently if one ear becomes increasingly painful, swollen or tense, particularly in the first 48 hours, as this may indicate a haematoma that needs draining. Contact the team the same day for fever, spreading redness, discharge or a bad smell from the dressing, which may be infection; infection of the ear cartilage needs prompt treatment to prevent damage. Sudden one-sided leg swelling or calf pain needs same-day advice from your GP or NHS 111, and chest pain or breathlessness requires a 999 call.
Looking after your result
Protect your ears from knocks, avoid tight hats and headphones that press on the ears for a few weeks, and do not colour your hair until healing is complete. Stopping smoking before and after surgery supports healing. Otoplasty at this practice is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a bandage worn after otoplasty?
Usually around five to seven days, followed by a soft headband, mainly at night, for about six weeks.
Is otoplasty recovery painful?
Aching and tenderness are common for the first few days and are usually managed with simple painkillers. Severe or worsening pain on one side should be reported urgently.
When can hair be washed?
Once the bandage has been removed at your first review, usually after about a week.
When is the final result visible?
The shape is visible once the bandage comes off, but swelling takes around three months to settle and the ears continue to refine over the first year.
Can glasses be worn after ear pinning?
Glasses can usually be worn, but they may press on tender ears. The team will advise on adjusting or padding the arms in the early weeks.
