How is cauliflower ear treated?
Cauliflower ear treatments may include:
- Incision and draining. When done promptly, this procedure can greatly reduce your risk of permanent ear deformity.
- Otoplasty (ear reshaping). This cosmetic surgery procedure can improve the appearance of your ear. You might need otoplasty if you have permanent ear damage or deformity.
If you undergo treatment quickly, you may not even develop cauliflower ear. That’s why it’s best to see a healthcare provider right away. In the meantime, ice your ear to minimize pain and swelling.
Can I drain cauliflower ear on my own?
Some people attempt to drain their own cauliflower ear using a syringe. There are a couple of problems with this. First, your ear may become infected. This can lead to even more issues. Second, simply draining the fluid from your ear does nothing to keep your ear compressed. As a result, the pocket created by the hematoma just keeps filling up repeatedly. This is why so many people have recurring issues with cauliflower ear.
If you get an injury that leads to cauliflower ear, you should seek medical care immediately. For best results, healthcare providers prefer to complete treatment within the first six hours.
How long does it take to recover from cauliflower ear treatment?
Your recovery timeline can vary, depending on:
- The severity of your condition.
- How much time passed between your ear injury and your treatment.
- What type of treatment you received.
For incision and draining, most people recover in about two weeks. If you’ve undergone cosmetic surgery for cauliflower ear, healing time usually takes about four weeks. Your healthcare provider can tell you what to expect in your specific situation.
