How long does it take to recover from ear surgery?
It typically takes about one week to recover from ear surgery. Your surgeon will discuss how long it will be before you can return to your normal level of activity and work. After your surgery, your surgeon will give you and your caregiver detailed instructions about your postoperative care, including information about:
- Drains, if they have been placed
- Typical symptoms you will experience
- Potential signs of complication
It is vital that you follow all the patient care instructions your surgeon provides. It is also important to know that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.
What can I expect in the first 24 hours of my ear surgery recovery?
- Following your procedure, you will have dressing wrapped around your ears.
- Soon after the procedure, your doctor will remove this heavier bandage to inspect the ears, and will likely replace it with a lighter dressing to keep your ears in place. It’s essential to keep this dressing in place unless instructed to do otherwise by your doctor.
- Your surgeon may prescribe a pain medication for any pain you may experience.
- You should have a responsible adult with you for at least the first twenty-four hours during your recovery period.
What can I expect in my first week of recovery?
- For the first week of recovery, you need to rest frequently, though you should still move around occasionally to keep blood flowing.
- To minimize discomfort, you can recline but keep your head elevated. Do not rest your head on the operated ear, as this can result in throbbing and general discomfort.
- Your surgeon will let you know when you can remove the dressing, and he or she may ask you to apply antibiotic ointment to the ears or perform other wound care treatments at home.
- Approximately one week after your procedure, you will return to the doctor’s office. Your surgeon may remove stitches at this time. Sometimes absorbable stitches are often used, which do not require removal.
- Though recovery is unique for every patient, you can expect to return to work and any light activity after one week.
What can I expect after two weeks?
- In two weeks, your final results will be visible, though small changes to the ears can occur for up to twelve months.