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Everything you need to know about cauliflower ears

Common amongst MMA fighters and wrestlers, a cauliflower ear (or auricular haematoma) occurs when there is bleeding between the skin and the cartilage of the outer ear. The cartilage becomes separated from its blood supply, and if it is not treated will eventually die. Scar tissue is formed, which causes the well known deformity.

How does it happen?

It is usually the result of friction or blunt trauma to the ear. This can happen with a strike that hits the ear, or from impact during grappling. Wrestlers are particularly vulnerable because of the frequent contact between head and opponent.

What does it feel like?

Cauliflower ears can be very painful in the early stages. They usually feel hot and swollen, and sore and squishy to touch. If untreated, this pain will reduce over the course of a few weeks, the lump will become hardened as the fluid is replaced by scar tissue.

How can I prevent it from happening to me? 

Ear guards are a very reliable way of preventing cauliflower ear, except that few of us wear them consistently enough! Most fighters will use them only when the ear starts getting sore, or after a recent cauliflower ear. This is usually too late to prevent the damage, but does reduce pain in training.

My ear has swollen up, what do I do now? 

If caught early enough, it’s possible to prevent a cauliflower ear from turning into a permanent deformity. Treatment consists of draining the fluid from the lump on the ear with a hypodermic needle and syringe. After draining the ear, it’s important to compress the area for 24-48 hours to prevent it from refilling with blood. There are various methods for doing this; a common and effective way is to pack cotton wool on both sides of the ear, and bandage it to the side of the head.

This should all be carried out by a doctor, nurse or other qualified health care provider.

Some fighters prefer to drain their own cauliflower ears. We wouldn’t recommend this. The main risk involved is infection – it is very important to ensure that the skin of the ear, the needle, and all the materials being used are all adequately disinfected.

When can I go back to training?

Some fighters will carry on training quite happily with a cauliflower ear. Ear guards can reduce the pain, and the likely worst case is that you end up with a grossly deformed ear.

If you prefer to keep your good looks intact and get the ear drained, then it is best to take a week to ten days off training afterwards while the ear heals – otherwise you’re likely to find yourself right back where you started.

What long term problems is it likely to cause?

Old cauliflower ears are rarely painful, and some mixed martial artists even welcome them as a “badge of honour”. However, aside from putting an end to your modelling career and restricting your choice of earphones, cauliflower ears can also affect your hearing so it is better to get them treated early.

What will my ear end up looking like?

Cauliflower ears vary greatly depending on how you treat them. Here’s a selection that we’ve collected, at various stages!