How long will the bruising and swelling last in an otoplasty?

The bruising and swelling from an otoplasty may last for about one to two weeks following the surgery. It varies from patient to patient, depending on their natural healing ability. Younger patients may in fact experience faster healing because of their stronger health and their body’s ability to repair itself.

Bruising from an otoplasty is fairly minimal if the operating surgeon is an expert at performing the surgery with minimum effort. Swelling is not a very serious outcome and it is expected in almost any surgery. In most cases, the swelling usually subsides within one week after the surgery. If the patient feels any pain or discomfort, the surgeon may prescribe mild pain relieving medication for a few days.

If the patient is a school going child, it may be advisable to plan the surgery during vacation time. This will ensure that there is no significant absence from school. It will also give the patient sufficient time to recuperate. However, even if the surgery is performed over a weekend, the child is not likely to miss school for more than a few days.

Patients should also understand that ears are not a very obvious or conspicuous part of the face. Therefore, a moderate condition of bruising and swelling may not be easily noticeable to others. So the patient should not feel awkward in that condition. In case of a child patient, the parents can play a proactive role in the physical recovery and restoration of confidence.

In case of girls, the situation becomes even easier during the recovery process. If they are worried about their looks during that period, it may be possible to cover their ears with their hair. So a very conscious female patient may choose to maintain a hair style that allows the ears to be hidden during the recovery period.

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