Case #7101
Ear Pinning
A woman in her 20s was self-conscious about prominent ears that stuck out. Shown four months after otoplasty (ear pinning) with Dr. Azadgoli.
A woman in her 20s had always been self-conscious about her prominent ears and felt they stuck out too much. Dr. Azadgoli performed an otoplasty (ear pinning). After photos were taken four months after surgery.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil discontinued 14 days pre-op to reduce bruising risk. Acetaminophen is allowed.
- No nicotine for 6 weeks before through 6 weeks after surgery. The vascular impact directly affects skin healing.
- Sleep elevated for the first week. Stock the kitchen with low-sodium soft foods, since chewing comfort and salt-driven swelling both matter early.
- A driver is required the day of surgery and a responsible adult should stay with you the first 24 hours.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
First week is rest, elevation, and ice. Expect the most swelling on day 3, then a steady downhill from day 5 onward.
- Week 2
Sutures or tape come off around day 7–10. Most patients are camera-ready for everyday life by the end of week 2 (lingering swelling, not bruising).
- Week 4
Facial contour 70–80 percent settled. Light cardio, yoga, and gentle facial massage cleared by the surgical team.
- Week 6
Most physical restrictions lift. Return to strength training, full-impact cardio, and overhead lifting.
- Month 3
Final swelling resolves on the deeper tissue planes. Most aesthetic refinements emerge between months 3 and 6.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Ear Pinning.
- Compression headband during sleep for 1–2 weeks
- No pressure on the ears (no side sleeping, no headphones) for 3 weeks
- Sutures dissolve over 2–3 weeks
- Children can return to school in 1 week wearing the headband
- Petrolatum-based ointment behind the ear for the first week
- SPF 50+ on the ears once incisions are sealed
- LED light therapy if requested to reduce residual redness
- Skincare
Skincare ramp-up: vitamin C and barrier repair at week 3, retinoids reintroduced at week 6.
Active skincare resumes on a healing-friendly ramp after facial surgery.
