Post-Op Care – Otoplasty

Overview

This guide explains how to care for yourself after otoplasty (ear surgery) to support safe healing, reduce complications, and achieve the best possible result. Please follow these instructions carefully and contact My Imperial Care if you notice anything unusual.

Dressing

• You will be placed in a head dressing immediately after surgery.
• Do not remove the dressing and keep it dry.
• The dressing will be removed the day after surgery at your postoperative appointment.

Bleeding

• Small amounts of oozing and bleeding are common and expected.
• You may change the gauze as needed at home.
• If bleeding is more than light staining, apply firm pressure for 20–30 minutes.
• If heavy bleeding occurs, contact us immediately.

Steri-strips and incision care

• Steri-strips support the incisions during early healing and help prevent scar widening.
• Leave steri-strips in place until they fall off naturally.
• You may gently wash over them with antibacterial soap.
• Do not trim or pull sutures.
• Suture ends are required for removal after 5–7 days.

Bruising and swelling

• Bruising and swelling are expected after surgery.
• Bruising usually resolves within 1–3 weeks.
• Swelling begins to improve after 48 hours but may take 3–6 months to fully resolve.

Pain and medication

Mild to moderate discomfort is normal after surgery. Follow all instructions provided with your pain medication.

Driving

• You may drive once driving does not cause pain.
• Wait at least 24 hours after anesthesia.
• Do not drive while taking strong pain medication.

Showering and bathing

• You may shower 24 hours after surgery.
• Avoid baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, oceans, and lakes until the incision is fully healed and scabs have disappeared.

Hematomas

• Hematomas are collections of blood and fluid under the skin or muscle.
• They are rare but must be reported immediately.
• Signs include significant swelling that appears to be increasing.
• If this occurs, contact us immediately.

Infection warning signs

• Foul-smelling drainage
• Yellow or green discharge from the incision
• Fever above 38.3°C (101°F) with chills
• Redness and warmth around the incision

Smoking warning

Smoking significantly increases the risk of skin loss and delayed wound healing.

Do not smoke while your body is healing.

Contact – My Imperial Care

If you have questions or concerns during your recovery, contact us:

Email: support@myimperial.care
WhatsApp: +90 541 859 04 15