Recovery is an essential part of any cosmetic surgery procedure, including otoplasty. The patient should be committed to taking all the required precautions during the recovery phase and allow for complete healing of the incisions.
The surgeon will inform the patient about the estimated downtime, give detailed instructions about post-operative care, and explain about the drains, normal post-surgical symptoms and signs of potential complications.
Patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding locations have an opportunity to receive otoplasty from board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eugene Kim.
Immediate Post-Op Phase
Following ear reshaping cosmetic surgery, the patient will have a dressing wrapped around the ears. The heavier bandage will be soon replaced with a lighter dressing after the surgeon reviews the incision areas. The patient should ensure that the dressing stays in its place unless directed otherwise by the surgeon.
The patient will typically be released from the surgical center on the same day of surgery, but they should have someone responsible to drive them back home after the procedure. Mild pain medications may be prescribed for the first few days to keep the patient comfortable.
Recovery Time Frame
The patient should ideally have someone to assist them at home for at least the first 24 hours during the recovery phase. The patient should rest adequately in the first week, but short walks and light activities at home are encouraged in this period to keep the blood flow normal in the incision areas.
The patient should recline for rest, but keep the head in an elevated position in order to reduce discomfort. The head should not rest on the operated ear to avoid throbbing and pain. The surgeon will inform when the dressing may be removed. An antibiotic cream may be prescribed for the incision areas.
The patient will be required to return to the surgeon’s office in about one week after the surgery. Sutures and drains will be removed during this appointment. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and other cities in Southern California for .
Although recovery process is unique to an individual patient, most patients can expect to return to their normal routine or go back to work in about one week. Final results will begin showing in two weeks, but small improvements to the ears can continue to develop for up to one year.
Sustainability of Results
Patients are required to refrain from smoking and taking certain medications such as blood thinners for several days before and after the ear surgery. This will mitigate the risk of slow healing and help ensure complete recovery. Results from otoplasty typically last for a lifetime, barring any incidents which may affect the shape or proportion of the ears.
Patients should maintain a relationship with the plastic surgeon, and return to their office at prescribed times for follow up and evaluation. If the patient notices any abnormal changes in the ears or other symptoms, they should promptly contact the surgeon.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
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