Post-operative care and follow-up

Detached ears
-
by Xavier Lachiver
created on
29/08/2017
modified on
30/08/2017
SHARE

They are simple in the vast majority of cases. Pain is generally very moderate (between 1 and 2 on a scale of 10). Post-operatively, it is common to observe :

- a little swelling and sometimes a few bruises on the outer surface and free edge of the pinna, and redness of the pinna. This appearance will gradually correct itself within a few weeks.
- sensory disturbances in theauricle. It is important to protect the ears from the cold (snow cap) and the heat (beware of the hair dryer...).

Exacerbated abnormal sensitivity usually persists for several months after the operation. Hospitalization is outpatient for adults, and brief inpatient for children. The patient is discharged with a prescription for simple analgesics and antibiotics, a telephone number in case of problems, and an appointment for the following day.
The dressing is renewed the following day to check that there is no hematoma, and a new consultation on the 3rd day allows the dressing to be removed and a new check carried out. A shampoo can then be applied. It is necessary to wear a bandage over the ears, day and night for 3 days, then an ear bandage (such as a tennis headband), only at night, for one month.

Scars can be left in the open air as soon as the dressing is removed, and glasses may be worn over the ears. Ears are often red and/or ecchymotic, and may take several weeks to regain their final color. Pinnae may also be over-glued at the outset, as they systematically tend to peel back in the following weeks. A final consultation is carried out at one month post-operatively, and if necessary at 6 months. Sports can be resumed after one month, with a headband over the ears for contact sports (judo, etc.).

Any questions?
Put it here: