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Cauliflower Ear

Thumbnail image of: Cauliflower Ear: Illustration

What is cauliflower ear?

Cauliflower ear is a permanent change in the shape (deformity) of the outer ear. It is caused by injury.

How does it occur?

Cauliflower ear starts as a collection of blood between the skin of the ear and the inner cartilage of the ear after an injury. The collection of blood is called a hematoma. It is often seen after being hit in the ear. This is most common in sports such as wrestling, boxing and rugby, after being hit in the ear. If the hematoma is not properly treated, it will eventually turn into scar tissue. This scar tissue has been said to look like a cauliflower.

What are the symptoms?

The hematoma is painful and swollen at first, but the pain goes away in a few weeks.

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will examine your ear. You will not need any tests.

How is it treated?

If the hematoma is new, it needs to be drained (aspirated) by a trained healthcare provider. Once the hematoma is drained, it often fills up with more fluid. To prevent fluid from collecting again, a special dressing that puts pressure on the injured area, called a compression dressing, will be put on your ear. You may have a small cast put on your ear, or the special dressing can be attached (usually with sutures) to the ear to prevent the fluid from collecting again. Your healthcare provider may give you antibiotics to prevent infection.

If the fluid is properly drained and does not collect again, the skin will attach back to the ear cartilage, preventing the scar tissue and the deformity of cauliflower ear.

When can I return to my sport or activity?

The hematoma needs to be drained and fully healed after using the compression dressing before you play a contact sport. Your healthcare provider will tell you when you can safely return to your sport. Once the deformity of cauliflower ear has happened, more activity does not usually make it worse.

How can I prevent cauliflower ear?

Using protective head gear in sports such as wrestling is the best way for you to prevent injury to the ear. Prompt and proper drainage and compression of the hematoma are important to prevent cauliflower ear.


Written by Pierre Rouzier, MD.
Adult Advisor 2012.1 published by RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2011-02-07
Last reviewed: 2010-10-11
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
© 2012 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
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