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You will be given precise instructions for postoperative care. Be sure that medical instructions are clearly understood by you and your family members. |
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Children should avoid contact sports or very vigorous activity that may increase risk of hitting, for the following four weeks. |
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A pressure dressing will be placed around the head to slightly compress the ears, hold everything in place, and promote healing. |
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Call your surgeon immediately if you experience excessive and prolonged pain. |
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ou may experience some itching and aching at the surgery site. Itching is typically a side effect of the sutures, which can become dry and irritated. Try not to scratch your scar as it may stretch. If sutures come apart, wound infection and other complications may occur. |
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The ears may throb or ache a little for a few days, but this can be relieved by medication. |
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Some patients refer a sensation of numbness after ear reconstruction surgery. This is a completely normal consequence of surgery. Sensation will return as healing progresses. |
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Drainage tubes are removed 48-72 hours after surgery. |
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Dr. Nieto will give you precise instructions for bathing and wound care. |
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Also, you will be informed when your sutures need to be removed. |
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Subsequent post-surgery visits will be scheduled to replace the head dressing and observe the healing process. Patient must return to the office for general check up as indicated by the physician. |
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Remember, recovery process is different in each patient |
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You may experience some sensation of tightness due to swelling. This condition is part of your healing and it will subside within days. |
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It will be given prescriptions for use following surgery, including anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce swelling, oral antibiotics, and pain medications to minimize any discomfort. |
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Inform immediately to your physician if you develop an unexpected reaction to the prescribed medication. |
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You must make arrangements for a responsible adult friend or family member to take you home and take care of you during your convalescence. |
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Avoid taking any medication that has not been prescribed by your doctor, especially aspirin (acetyl salicylic acid) or aspirin-like products (Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin or Aleve). These medicines have anticoagulant adverse effects and may increase the risk of bleeding or scarring complications. |
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You should expect some bruising as a natural part of reconstruction surgery. This condition will fade within days after surgery. |
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Lifting heavy things, animals or children may affect the area of surgery. You must avoid any activity that increases risk of hitting for two weeks after surgery. |
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20 |
You should avoid contact sports or very vigorous activity for three months. |
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21 |
Please inform Dr. Nieto if you present heavy bleeding from the wound, severe pain or chest pressure, high fever (more than 38 degrees), significant redness or severe discomfort. |
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