If your ears are a source of embarrassment or annoyance for you, otoplasty is a special type of plastic surgery that might suit you. Whether one ear or both are misshapen or not the size you would like, this procedure can help.

Like any kind of surgery, you will need to follow specific instructions during the recovery period, most of which can be provided by your doctor. However, here is a general overview of how the postoperative care should be handled.

You will have some swelling for a few weeks, and it could even go away only to return within a few months. This is normal. To keep swelling to a minimum, try to keep your head elevated for the first week or so, and do not lift heavy objects or sunbathe for the first few months.

This will only irritate the area. Bruising is similar and should fade more each week, but you can simply use makeup to cover this if desired. It will go away naturally.

You will go home with bandages on your head the day of surgery. The next day, you can typically get the dressing removed, but you need to keep it clean meanwhile. To do so, you can clean the sutured area with a q-tip dipped in hydrogen peroxide. Once you get the dressing removed, you will receive a headband to keep the ear area safe.

You will need to wear the headband for at least two weeks, as this will help keep your ears even with each other. It is recommended that you choose baths instead of showers for this time period, but if you must you take a shower, you will need to be careful to work around the headband and not disturb the healing process. After the first two weeks, you only need to wear the headband at night until it has been six weeks since the otoplasty.

Choosing to get this surgery is a big step to being happier with your ears and your overall appearance. This part of your body can stand out if something doesn't look right, so letting the area ruin your entire appearance is not recommended.

Clearly, getting an otoplasty does require some recovery time, but it does not last long, and the results are often worth it. If you have questions about the recuperation period, or notice bleeding for more than ten minutes, contact your doctor for further instructions.