Cochlear Implant Do not blow your nose for about six weeks. If you need to cough or sneeze, do not try to suppress it. Open your mouth so no air will be forced into your ears. Do not try to “pop” your ears for about six weeks. Keep incision dry for 2 weeks. You may clean the external ear and behind it with peroxide. Do not strain or do heavy lifting for 6 weeks. Do not fly for 3 weeks. Make appointments for suture removal at 1 week, exam at 3-4 weeks for activation of implant. Notify the office of excessive pain and tenderness from the incision area or fever over 101° F. Plan to miss work or school for about 2 weeks. Do not allow water to get into the ear.