Otoplasty

Who Is It For?

The most common ear abnormality is the prominent ear. If the ears protrude considerably, they attract other people’s attention and may be the cause of unpleasant comments. While the adults normally consider this aspect to be a cosmetic problem, it might become a stressful situation for children who must often face mockery. Prominent ears normally affect self-confidence, bring embarrassment and cause limitations for example in the hairstyle choice. 

How Is It Done?

Surgery of ear consists in loosening the skin behind the auricles and remodelling the cartilage and adjacent muscles. Thus the ear can be repositioned and moved closer to the head. The incision is made behind the lobe, so that the scar is hidden and not easily visible. 

Surgery

Surgery of ear is performed under local anaesthesia or by client’s request under intravenous sedation, which is more comfortable because the patient sleeps during the operation. It usually takes less than one hour.  

After Surgery

The client stays at the clinic overnight (but can leave after the treatment upon request). The compressive bandage is worn for two weeks and even after this period it is recommended to wear a protective band at night for two or three weeks more. It is also necessary to pay special attention to regular hygiene of the area. Sometimes ears can be a little bit sensitive, but this is a normal postoperative symptom which quickly subsides.

Until the bandages are removed, it is important to rest. The ideal position is on the back, with the head and body slightly elevated, to reduce, as much as possible, any post-operative complications. It is also advisable to use two pillows on each side to avoid lying on the side during the night and harming the operated area.

Incision Care

Within five to seven days of the ear pinning surgery, once back at home, the client can wash your hair with tapped water and preferably mild (for example, baby) shampoo. Attention should be paid to careful movements when drying the hair and a soft towel is advised.

After the bandages have been removed, the client should clean the area behind the ears with a disinfectant put on cotton wool buds. Chemical treatment of the hair (dying, perming) is not advisable until several weeks after the operation and always after consultation with the doctor. 

Back To Normal

If no complications occurred, it is normally possible to return to work and resume customary non-exercise activity within one week after the operation. Normal physical activity including exercise should not be resumed until three weeks after the ear pinning surgery.

Extra

Ear pinning surgery depends on the client’s wishes and is tailored to their needs. If only one of the ears is prominent, the surgeon may suggest operating on both ears to ensure the same position and angle. It is also possible to correct the size of very large lobes.