• Reference Number: HEY1461-2024
• Departments: Day Surgery (DSU), Paediatrics
• Last Updated: 30 September 2024

Introduction

This leaflet has been produced to give parents information and advice following an Otoplasty. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and your Child’s

Should you need any further help or advice please telephone:

Acorn Ward, Women and Children’s Hospital, HRI – Tel: 01482382609 or tel: 01482382679

OR contact the Paediatric Community Team on tel: 01482344075

Follow Up

• A wound check will be needed approximately one week after the surgery. The Community Paediatric Team will be informed and will contact you to make an appointment.
• An appointment is usually needed to be seen by the consultant/surgeon in clinic. This will be arranged for you and sent in the post.

School

• Your child can return to school one week after the bandages have been removed.
• Your child should not undertake PE, games, sport or swimming until the bruising and any remaining swelling has subsided.
• If you feel that your child needs a little longer to recover we are happy for you to use your personal judgement

After the Surgery

• The bandages are tight to protect the new shape of the ears.
• It is important that the bandages remain in place.
• If it slips or becomes loose during the night please contact the Acorn Ward.
• As the area heals there may be an aching or itching sensation. It is important that your child does not poke any fingers under the bandages as this may cause infection.
• It is not unusual for either ear to be uncomfortable first thing in the morning, especially if your child has slept on a particular side.
• Giving the appropriate pain relief will settle the discomfort.
• For about a month following the removal of the bandages, it is advisable to wear a headband during the night to prevent the ears becoming accidentally folded over during sleep.
• Hair washing and brushing should be gentle as the ears remain bruised for several weeks.

Pain Relief

• During the surgery it is usual for some local anaesthetic to be used, which will help with pain relief after surgery.
• We recommend that for the first 24 to 48 hours a suitable form of analgesia is given regularly if needed e.g. Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. This should be the appropriate dose for weight and age.
• Ibuprofen may not be suitable for asthmatics.