There is normally very little pain or bruising involved postoperatively. It takes about a week and a half after the procedure for most of the swelling to subside, although the area will be sensitive for about three weeks. The pressure dressing is removed after five to seven days. Ears will often feel numb for two to three months after the surgery, with sensation returning slowly over that period. This numbness is the reason that there is generally no pain during otoplasty recovery, which makes the operation exceptionally well-tolerated by children.