Ear surgery

The ears are a very important part of the face. Approximately five percent of population experience protruding ears, which can have a significant impact on self-image. For this reason, the ears are often covered with hair, and women tend to avoid specific hairstyles.

Protruding ears are an anomaly in which the ear cartilage is not properly developed and shaped.

With the procedure called otoplasty, or correction of protruding ears we sculpt the ear cartilage to the point where the ears look natural and in line with the rest of the face.

Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?

Protruding ears can affect self-confidence in both sexes, so otoplasty is an option for both women and men who want their ears to be in line with the rest of their face.

Protruding ears often attract unpleasant attention, are the target of teasing and can also determine the hairstyle choices. Teasing in children can also lead to psychosocial problems. Improving the appearance of the ears through otoplasty can enhance overall facial harmony and appearance.

The reason for protruding ear is usually the cartilage which is not properly developed and the angle to the surrounding scalp is too wide. Usually, the ear shell is too large and the posterior part of the antihelical fold is incorrectly sculpted. The anomaly affects up to five per cent of the population and may be genetic.

What are the steps of otoplasty?

For adults and children over the age of ten, ear correction is performed under local anaesthesia and takes approximately 60 minutes.

For younger children, general anaesthesia is recommended. The otoplasty procedure brings the ears closer to the head so that the position of the ears looks natural and in harmony with the rest of the face.

The step-by-step of otoplasty procedure is as follows:

The surgical incision is made behind the ear.
I bend the ear cartilage, sculpt and fix it in the correct position.
I usually suture the post-operative wound with an absorbable suture that does not need to be removed.
After the procedure, I bandage your ears with a compression bandage to protect your ears and prevent infection and swelling.

Otoplasty in children

Protruding ears are one of the features that can have a strong impact on children and their psychosocial development.

This is because children can quickly become the target of inappropriate teasing. The best time for children to have otoplasty is usually before starting school. In small children I usually perform the ear pinning under general anaesthesia.

How does the otoplasty procedure differ in children compared to adults:

The child must be mature enough to understand the procedure, the duration and the recovery.
The cartilage shaping is less complex as the cartilage is softer and can be reshaped more easily.
Children should wear the ear protection band for four weeks and then for two weeks at night or during play.
The result of otoplasty is permanent.

What should I expect during otoplasty recovery?

The recovery process after otoplasty or ear surgery is generally well-tolerated, and most patients can resume their normal activities within a week.

Here are some key points about the otoplasty recovery process:

Immediate post-operative period: after the otoplasty procedure, your ears will be bandaged to protect the surgical incisions and provide support to the newly shaped ears. You may experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the ear area, which is normal and can be managed with pain medications.
Rest: it is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days following otoplasty. Keeping your head elevated while sleeping can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Follow-up appointments: you will have follow-up appointments with me to monitor your healing progress and ensure that everything is healing properly. I will remove the bandages and assess the surgical site during these appointments.
Swelling and bruising: swelling and bruising around the ears are common after otoplasty and typically subside within a few weeks.
Wearing a protective headband: I recommend wearing a protective headband over the ears for a certain period to provide additional support and protection as the ears heal.
Resuming normal activities: while you may be able to return to work or school within a week after otoplasty, it is important to avoid activities that could put pressure on or traumatize the ears during the initial healing phase.
Long-term results: the final results of otoplasty may not be fully visible until several weeks to months after the procedure, as the ears continue to settle into their new position and shape.

It is essential to communicate any concerns or questions you may have during the recovery process with me as I will provide you with the guidance, support, and reassurance as you progress through the healing journey after otoplasty.

Here is a summary of instructions to follow to make your recovery as smooth as possible:

Otoplasty is a day surgery and you are discharged the same day from the clinic.
A bandage is placed over your ears and should remain so until the follow up appointment.
I advise you to rest with your head elevated and lying on your back.
Avoid bending, lying on the sides, lifting heavy objects, straining…
The wound will heal in seven to ten days. After this time, start caring for the scar.
The head band that holds the ears in the correct position should be worn for three to four weeks after surgery, then for two weeks at night or when there is a risk of injury.
You can return to work seven to ten days after otoplasty.
Avoid sporting activities for three weeks.

What are the risks and potential complications of otoplasty surgery?

While otoplasty (ear surgery) is generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries the risk of potential complications. It is important for individuals considering otoplasty to be aware of these potential risks and complications. Here are some common complications associated with otoplasty:

Infection: infection at the surgical site is a possible complication following otoplasty. Signs of infection may include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the incision site.
Bleeding: some degree of post-operative bleeding is normal after otoplasty. However, excessive or persistent bleeding may occur in rare cases and may require medical attention.
Poor wound healing: in some cases, the incision sites from otoplasty may have issues with wound healing, such as delayed healing, wound separation, or hypertrophic scarring. Proper wound care can help address these issues.
Asymmetry: achieving perfect symmetry in the ears can be challenging, and some degree of asymmetry may occur following otoplasty. I will strive to create a balanced and harmonious result, but minor differences in ear shape or position may be present.
Overcorrection or undercorrection: in some cases, the ears may be overcorrected (pinned back too tightly) or undercorrected (insufficient correction of protrusion). I will work to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome while maintaining a natural appearance of the ears.
Numbness or altered sensation: temporary numbness or altered sensation in the ears and surrounding areas may occur after otoplasty.
Allergic reactions: rarely, individuals may experience allergic reactions to medications or materials used during otoplasty, such as anaesthesia or surgical dressings. It is important to inform me of any known allergies before the procedure.
Revision surgery: in some cases, additional surgery may be needed to address unsatisfactory results, complications, or asymmetry following otoplasty. Revision surgery can help improve the outcome and achieve the desired aesthetic goals.

It is essential to discuss potential risks and complications with me during the pre-operative consultation. By understanding the possible risks and being well-informed about the procedure, you can make an informed decision about undergoing otoplasty and be prepared for the post-operative recovery process.

Otoplasty is often sought by individuals who wish to achieve better facial harmony and balance by enhancing the appearance of the ears. Reshaping the ears to complement the overall facial features can lead to a more aesthetically pleasing look and has been proven to bring great satisfaction and a boost to self-esteem.

Deciding to have otoplasty surgery is a big step. I am sure you have some remaining questions, concerns or doubts. I would be happy to discuss the procedure with you and together we will find the best possible solution for your individual needs. To schedule a consultation please click here.

Ear surgery | Otoplasty

Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery or ear pinning, is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed to reshape, reposition, or resize the ears.

How long does the procedure take?

What is the type of anesthesia?

When are you discharged home?

When can you return to work?

When can you return to normal life?

When is it seen end result?