How painful is an otoplasty?
Sophia Vance
Published Jan 19, 2026
Ear pinning surgery isn't painful, as patients are placed under general anesthesia for the surgery. However, you may feel some discomfort immediately after the procedure, as your ears will be bandaged to reduce swelling and preserve healing.
How much does it hurt after otoplasty?
In general, post-operative pain is fairly minimal with most Otoplasty (Ear Pinning) Surgery. Often over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine is all you'll need to address the pain. However, like any surgical procedure there are inherent risks involved.How long will my ears hurt after otoplasty?
The discomfort and pain should begin to decrease within 48 hours after surgery. A significant increase in pain after this period should prompt you to call the office.Is otoplasty a difficult surgery?
While reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair trauma damage to ears, otoplasty is typically a cosmetic procedure. It's not a complex surgery, nor is recovery typically difficult.When does otoplasty pain stop?
Day 1 to Day 7: You should keep your recovery headband around your ears within the first few days post-surgery. By the third day, a significant amount of the initial Otoplasty swelling will have subsided. Much of the associated pain should diminish as well.PAIN AFTER OTOPLASTY - 59 PLUS 1 - DR. TANVEER JANJUA
Is an otoplasty worth it?
Ear reshaping (otoplasty) also improves the shape of the ear to correct the appearance of protruding ears and specialized techniques may also improve deformities of the ear. This is why otoplasty procedures have a 96% worth-it rating on RealSelf. It also corrects the heavy neck or double chin.How do you sleep with otoplasty?
You should rest with your head elevated in a recliner or with at least 2 pillows for at least the first week after surgery. Try not to sleep on the side of your face but rather sleep with the back of your head on the pillow for about two weeks.Does getting your ears pinned back hurt?
Ear pinning surgery isn't painful, as patients are placed under general anesthesia for the surgery. However, you may feel some discomfort immediately after the procedure, as your ears will be bandaged to reduce swelling and preserve healing.Are you put to sleep for otoplasty?
The good news is that, in most cases when performed on adults, otoplasty is performed under local anesthesia only. Your ear and the area around your ear will be numbed with an injection, and you may be given a sedative to calm your nerves, but you will remain awake throughout the procedure.Are you awake during ear pinning?
Ear Pinning Surgery: Procedure and CareThe surgeon may opt for a general anesthesia that causes a deep sleep during the surgery, or a combination of sedative medications and local anesthesia, which allows the patient to remain awake but relaxed throughout the procedure.
Can you shower after otoplasty?
You can shower on the second day after your surgery. Please avoid rubbing the back of the ears when showering as aggressive rubbing in these areas may disrupt the skin stitches and/or cause harm to the otoplasty result.Can you wear headphones after otoplasty?
You can wear earphones after the otoplasty if approved by the surgeon. However, you should avoid wearing over-the-ear headphones for at least one month after the ear surgery. You must consult your surgeon before using headphones or earphones or wearing jewelry and other objects on your ear.Can you drive home after otoplasty?
AFTER YOUR SURGERY: THE FIRST 72 HOURSnormal to have some temporary burning discomfort. You will be assisted to your car after you are suitably recovered from your procedure.
How long does otoplasty surgery take?
After making incisions, your doctor might remove excess cartilage and skin. He or she will then fold the cartilage into the proper position and secure it with internal stitches. Additional stitches will be used to close the incisions. The procedure typically takes about two hours.Is it normal to bleed after otoplasty?
BLEEDING: Small amounts of oozing and bleeding are common and expected. Feel free to change the gauze as needed at home. If the bleeding is more than a slow staining of the dressings, apply firm pressure for 20-30 minutes. Should heavy bleeding occur, apply firm pressure and call the office immediately at 479-521-1500.Can I train my ears not to stick out?
For older babies, toddlers, children, and adults who want their ears to stick out less, the only option is surgery. It's called otoplasty and is also known as ear pinning.How much does otoplasty cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of otoplasty is $3,156. The cost may be lower or higher depending on factors like the plastic surgeon, your location, and the type of procedure that's used.How do you shower after ear surgery?
Showering
- ALWAYS keep the inside of the ear dry.
- Shower or bathe 48 hours after surgery, but do not soak or scrub the wound.
- Place a cotton ball coated with Vaseline or an earplug in the outside bowl of the ear (don't use cotton without lubricant or push on packing inside the ear)