OTOPLASTY SURGERY (PROMINENT EARS)
Ear correction surgery or Otoplasty is a procedure that corrects prominent ears. Prominent ears are very common, although in more extreme cases, they can cause great emotional distress and a loss of confidence. The Otoplasty procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia unless the patient is a young child where general anaesthesia is required. The operation is carried out behind the ears and a small scar is left in the groove between the ear and the side of the head. Otoplasty can also include ear reshaping and ear positioning.
A small protective dressing is worn after surgery and is kept on until the sutures are removed normally between 5-10 days. Until fully healed it is recommended that a protective head-band or bandage is worn when sleeping to avoid the ears being bent forwards in the night.
What is the definition of Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a surgical term used to describe pinning back of prominent ears, it literally means "re-shaping or re-forming" the ears.
Who is a good candidate for Otoplasty?
Children and adults with prominent ears who are overly self-conscious about their self-image due to having large ears are usually good candidates for Otoplasty.
What are the risks of having ear corrective surgery?
Although thousands of children and adults undergo Otoplasty every year with no major complications and whilst rare, it is important to note that the ear corrective surgery carries a degree of risk, this includes infection, bleeding, shifting, asymmetry and scars.
How is Otoplasty surgery performed?
Otoplasty can be performed used different techniques dependant on the overall goal for your ears. One of the more common techniques is to make a small incision at the back of your ear to expose cartilage that is then sculpted and bent back towards your head. Another technique involves a similar incision in the back of the ear where skin (as opposed to cartilage) is removed to reshape the ear and the cartilage is folded back onto itself.
How do I know if Otoplasty can help me?
The best way to determine if Otoplasty can help you is to arrange an appointment with the Consultant Plastic Surgeon.
