For the first days the ears may throb and feel painful but this can be reduced by mild painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. The bandage can feel bulky and uncomfortable and the ears may itch as they heal. Scratching can introduce infection and adults should ignore any itchy feelings. Children need to be heavily discouraged from scratching.
It is common for the ears to feel different – more or less sensitive in places, or even numb, for about one year after ear correction surgery. It also takes about six months after otoplasty for the ears to settle down to their final shape and size. Scarring is usually minimal and will hidden from view behind the ear. Rarely, raised keloid scars can form and further surgery may be required to reduce them.
It is also rare, but still possible, that the ears will be asymmetrical after cosmetic ear surgery, and unacceptable to the patient. In a very few people, the ears spring back to their previous position. Both of these problems can be corrected by a subsequent operation.
For most people the risks involved in ear plastic surgery are minimal, but if you are at all concerned ask your surgeon for more detailed ear correction surgery information.
