Exact Answer: 1 to 2 weeks
Otoplasty is a cosmetic, mostly surgical, but can be a non-surgical procedure performed on the ear. It is performed to change the shape, size, or position of the ears. This surgical procedure is done under anesthesia. Many people go in for otoplasty to either change or rectify the shape of the ears. Birth defects, injuries, accidents, ears that stick out, the disproportionality of ears to the head, etc. may be reasons to undergo otoplasty.
How Long After Otoplasty Can I Wear Earrings?
Otoplasty being a surgical procedure on the ear normally takes anywhere between 1 to 4 weeks to heal. This depends on the severity or extent of the surgery. Most surgeries are corrective, so they don’t intrude too far, thereby allowing faster healing and recovery. In most cases, the ear heals to an extent that you will be able to wear light earrings within 2 weeks of the procedure. Otoplasty is performed on the visible portion of the outer ear, which is called the auricle. The auricle consists mainly of the folds of cartilage that are covered in the skin.
Earrings are of different types and proportions and even materials. All these factors also play a great role in the time after which you can wear earrings without causing much harm. In most cases, it is recommended to start with the lightest studs or small earrings that one can find. The earing should be sterilized so that it does not cause any infection at the newly healed site. The earrings used while piercing a new earhole make a perfect choice as they are both, small and hygienic.
After about 2 to 3 weeks of wearing these small earrings or studs, you can move on to medium-sized, but light earrings. This is to prevent stretching or pulling of the skin or ear. The area may still be tender and not completely healed. It is necessary to use metals that no do cause decoloration, allergy, infection on any such hygiene issues. Once you feel comfortable for at least 2 weeks wear medium-sized earrings, only then you should move on to heavier or hanging earrings.
It is very important to keep in mind that at any point if you feel pain or any discomfort, it is necessary to either remove the earring or seek medical guidance with the same.
| Earring type | Time after surgery |
| Studs/small earring (light) | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Medium size | 3 to 4 weeks |
| Large / Hanging | 6 weeks onwards |
Why Can I Wear Earrings That Long After Otoplasty?
Otoplasty may be a comparatively simple procedure according to your surgeon but can take a lot of time to heal. This also varies from person to Peron. This is because not all people undergoing otoplasty are having the same surgical procedure. These are the different types of procedures that are done under otoplasty.
Firstly, Ear augmentation. People who have small ears or ears that haven’t completely developed opt for ear augmentation, during which the size of the ear can be increased. Secondly, there is Ear pinning, which involves bringing the ears closer to the head. Most people whose ears protrude from the sides of their heads opt for this kind of correction.The third type of procedure is Ear reduction. when one’s ears are larger than normal, it is termed Macrotia. Individuals having Macrotia can have a correction or reduction of their ears by this procedure.
Otoplasty, once done can have amazing results, but for the healing period to be easy and smooth, one needs to take all precautions and care. This includes proper hygiene, taking medications as prescribed, and avoiding stressing the ears. As the surgical procedure is normally done on both ears, to maintain symmetry, both ears need to be taken care of equally. The position of the ears, on both sides of the head, can pose problems while healing, but proper care can facilitate the process.
In terms of stress on the ears, we have earrings that can cause strain on the ears and the area that has undergone surgery. It is important to introduce them in a phased manner.
Conclusion
Otoplasty is a method for adjusting the deformations and absconds of the pinna, and for recreating an imperfect, or twisted, or missing outside ear, resulting due to inherent conditions and injury. In case your auricle doesn’t create appropriately, you’ll select to have otoplasty to adjust the estimate, situating or shape of your ears.
It takes about 1 to 2 weeks to start wearing light earrings and up to a month to wear medium-sized ones.
References
- https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/fulltext/2005/04010/Otoplasty.24.aspx
- https://journals.lww.com/jcraniofacialsurgery/Fulltext/2003/09000/Otoplasty__Evaluation,_Technique,_and_Review.8.aspx
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The information about the healing time and earrings in this article is quite enlightening. Well done.
The details about the healing process and the types of earrings are really helpful. Thanks for sharing this knowledge.
This is a very informative article about otoplasty. It’s good to know the healing time after the surgery.
Yes, it’s important to consider the type and size of earrings after otoplasty. Thanks for the details.
Absolutely, the details about earrings are fascinating. It’s essential to make the right choices after surgery.
I had no idea that the type of earrings could influence the healing process. Great to learn something new.
This article provides valuable information on otoplasty and ear piercing after surgery. Important details to consider.
I appreciate the insights about the healing process and the role of earrings in it. Very useful information.
The part about the different types of earrings and how they affect healing time is very interesting.
I never thought about earrings making a difference in healing. This article really shed light on that aspect.
The article’s explanation of the healing time and types of earrings is thorough and interesting. Good to know.