How to drain cauliflower ear
What Is Cauliflower Ear?
Cauliflower ear is a common injury in combat sports like wrestling, BJJ, and MMA. It forms when the ear experiences trauma, causing a hematoma (a fluid-filled pocket) between the skin and cartilage. If not treated quickly, this fluid hardens over a few days and forms a permanent, lumpy deformity — known as cauliflower ear.
How Does Cauliflower Ear Develop?
When the ear is hit, the skin separates from the cartilage and a cavity fills with fluid. Within 24–48 hours, that fluid can clot and harden, resulting in long-term disfigurement. To prevent this, the ear must be drained promptly and then compressed to stop it from refilling.
How Long Do You Have to Drain It?
In most cases, you have up to two days to drain the hematoma. However, cauliflower ear can start forming in as little as 24 hours, so early treatment is key.
Tip: Do not use ice. While it might reduce swelling, it can also slow blood flow and cause the fluid to harden faster.
What You’ll Need to Drain Cauliflower Ear
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Needle and Syringe (18–24 gauge): You can find these at some pharmacies. Independent stores are usually more flexible than large chains.
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Syringe Size: At least 3CC, depending on the hematoma.
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Rubbing Alcohol or Iodine (for sterilization)
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Sterile Gauze
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CauliBuds Compression Kit
How to Drain Cauliflower Ear (Step-by-Step)
⚠️ If the swelling is near your ear canal, do NOT attempt to drain it yourself. Seek professional medical help. Never insert a needle into the ear canal.
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Clean the area thoroughly with alcohol or iodine.
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Locate the soft, swollen part of the ear.
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Remove the syringe cap and insert the needle slowly into the bottom of the swollen area (around 2mm deep).
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Pull back on the plunger to create suction as you slowly insert deeper.
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Once fluid starts filling the syringe, continue drawing until fully drained.
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Remove the needle and press sterile gauze on the area to stop any bleeding.
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Apply CauliBuds immediately to compress the drained area and prevent it from refilling.
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Wear CauliBuds for 48–72 hours, or until the swelling has completely settled.
Recovery Tips
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Avoid heavy training or intense cardio for 24–48 hours after draining.
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Wear CauliBuds under your headgear during training while healing.
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Full recovery may take up to two weeks, depending on the injury.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and doesn’t replace professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before attempting any medical procedure at home.