INTRODUCTION
Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping surgery, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to improve the shape, size, or position of the ears. This is one of the commonest procedure performed by Plastic Surgeons worldwide. In Avisena Specialist Hospital, i performed this procedure for both the local and international clients.
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM OTOPLASTY?
Read more about otoplasty here
This procedure can be performed on children and adults who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their ears due to a variety of reasons, such as prominent ears, asymmetrical ears, or ears that are too large or too small.
In the case of prominent ears, the cause is usually the imbalance between the structure of the cartillage and the overlying skin. Some people may have a unilateral macrotia.
WHEN IS THE EARLIEST AGE TO DO THIS PROCEDURE?
For children, the ears will achieve 90% of adult size by the age of 7 years old. Due to this fact, the repair is done after this age.
Each procedure in plastic surgery and aesthetics will have its unique facts, like for example buccal fat removed.
Read about 7 COMMON QUESTIONS ON BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL HERE..
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HOW IS THIS COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURE DONE?
During the procedure, the surgeon typically makes an incision behind the ear, and then reshapes the cartilage to achieve the desired result. Depending on the specific case, the surgeon may remove excess cartilage, or add cartilage grafts to the ear. The procedure typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete, and patients are usually able to go home the same day.
Anaesthetic options
There are 2 options ie : General Anaethesia where you not be awake and Local Anaesthesia where numbing medications will be injected and you will be awake during the procedure.
70% of my Otoplasty cases were performed under Local Anaesthesia.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER DISCHARGED?
After the surgery, patients will have a dressing around their head to protect the ears and promote healing. They may also experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the area for a few days following the surgery. Most patients are able to return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least several weeks.
Some tips to help during the recovery process :
Watch this video for Tips to let wound heal faster.
a) Avoid strenous exercise within the first week
b) Application of compression bandage within the first 1 day after surgery
c) Taking the prescribed medications such as analgesia and antibiotics accordingly
d) Monitoring for signs of infection at the surgery site within the first 2 weeks
e) Taking healthy diets
f) Getting adequate sleep at night
Read about THE FACTS OF DOUBLE EYELID SURGERY here
One of the questions my patients commonly asked me is how bad will the scar be and how to minimize it? Generally in Otoplasty :
- The scar will be hidden behind the ears
- The scar will settle-down after 3 to 6 months post-surgery
- Adding some simple remedies and steps can improve the surgical scars ( see the video below)
- Scar gel should be used within the first 3 months after Otoplasty
Read more about otoplasty here
IS IT SAFE?
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Otoplasty is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, with a high satisfaction rate among patients. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications that should be discussed with a qualified surgeon prior to the procedure. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, and changes in sensation or function of the ear.
Learn more about common Plastic Surgery procedures for men here and Plastic Surgery procedures that are covered by health insurance here
Keep learning about other procedures here : Liposuction, Abdominoplasty, Hair Transplantation, Otoplasty, Buccal Fat Removal
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