What is a
otoplasty?
Otoplasty is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to head
or to reduce the size of large ears.
Who is a good
candidate for a otoplasty?
For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages
of six to 14 years. Ears are almost fully grown by age six. Ear surgery
on adults is possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated
with ear surgery an older patient.
Are there
risks involved?
While all surgery carries some risk and plastic surgery is no exception.
Serious complications are infrequent when the otoplasty is performed
by qualified plastic surgeon. Risk of complications can be minimized
by closely adhering to your surgeon’s advice on follow-up care.
What will
happen during surgery?
The surgery may take two to three hours. The technique will depend on
the problem.
With one of the more common techniques, the surgeon makes a small incision
back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. He or she will then sculpt
the cartilage and bend it back toward the head. Non-removable stitches
may be used to helix maintain the new shape.
In most cases, ear surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of the
ear.
Adult and children are usually up and around within a few hours of surgery,
although you may prefer to stay overnight in the hospital with child
until all effects of general anesthesia wear off.
The patient’s head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following
surgery to promote the best molding and healing.
After surgery, there is soreness and discomfort which is easily controlled
by medication.
Within a few days, the bulky bandages will be replaced by a lighter
head dressing similar to a headband. Be sure to follow your surgeo’s
directions for wearing dressing, especially at night.
Stitches are usually removed, or will dissolve, in about a week.
The decision on when to return to work and normal activities depends
on how fast you heal and how you feel. Sports should be avoided for
four weeks.
What is the
fee?
Fees and operative facility costs of otoplsty vary widely, depending
on the length, technique and complexity of the operation. Additional
expenses will depend on the anesthesia used, and how long have you been
in a hospital.
What is your question?
