Otoplasty

Otoplasty, which is also known as cosmetic ear surgery, is a procedure to alter the shape, position or size of the ears. An inborn ear-shape defect or a defect that has become apparent after some time can be corrected by otoplasty.  This procedure can also be used in defects resulting from injury.  

Otoplasty aims to give the face and ears a proportion and for ears to look natural. Correcting even small deformations may lead to self-respect.  Otoplasty should be considered if you are uncomfortable with your ears.

The Importance of Otoplasty

Otoplasty is often done to improve the functional problems or cosmetic appearance of the ears. It can be done at any age after the ears have reached their full size. It is generally done after the age of 5 since the ears continue growing and developing until you are 5 years old. In some cases, the surgery is done as early as age 3. Having the surgery between the ages of 5 and 7 will prevent any teases the child may face at school. In addition, the ears of children are softer and this makes it easier to reshape them.  

Who Can Have Otoplasty? 

People who have realistic expectations about the procedure and who don’t have a medical barrier that will prevent them from being cured or a chronical ear infection are suitable for otoplasty. 

Before the Procedure

Before otoplasty, one must stop eating nearly 6 hours ago. If the stomach is not empty, there is a risk of anesthetic complication.  Smokers must try hard to quit smoking or at least reduce the number of cigarettes. This will help to decrease coughing and bleeding. 

During the Procedure

The technique that will be used in otoplasty changes according to the type of correction and the condition of the patient. The technique chosen by the surgeon determines the location of the incision. The doctor might make an incision behind the ear or inner fold of the ear.  After the incision, if necessary, the extra cartilage inside the ear is removed or the ear can be shaped without removing the cartilage and fixed with stiches inside. The surgery can be done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Blood pressure, pulse and cardiac rhythm (EKG) are always monitored. The procedure lasts about one to two hours depending on the case and whether there are any extra processes to be done. The changes in otoplasty are permanent. 

After Otoplasty

After otoplasty, the patient will likely feel some discomfort and itching. It is important to use the painkillers the doctor prescribes. However, if the pain gets worse, you should consult your doctor. 

After otoplasty, your ears will be covered in bandages for protection and support. You must keep the bandages for a week unless otherwise specified. After the bandages are removed, your ears will likely be swollen and red, but it will get better after a while. You'll need to wear a loose headband that covers your ears at night for two to six weeks. This will help keep you from pulling your ears forward when rolling over in bed.

Consider wearing button-down shirts or shirts with loose-fitting collars in order to avoid rubbing. Your doctor will inform you about when — or if — your stitches will be removed. Some stitches dissolve on their own. Others must be removed by the doctor in the weeks after the procedure.

Recovery

The swelling after otoplasty will vanish after some time. In most of the cases, there will be scars behind the ears that will fade away. The changes in the ears are permanent. Because the ear cartilage is so flexible, there won’t be any mobility problems in the ears.  
Risks

The doctor will check the ears a day after the surgery. If there is pain only in one ear, the doctor should be informed.  You should also consult your doctor if your fever is getting higher despite the amount of liquid and the medication taken and if there is bleeding or an increase in swelling or redness. 

Is There an Alternative of Otoplasty? 

There is no alternative method that will relocate or reshape ears. People might be worried about themselves or their children. In order to overcome the worries, you should talk to your doctor.