FAQs For Otoplasty
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery
procedure which can improve the appearance of the ears. Otoplasty can
reduce the size of large ears, set back prominent or protruding ears
closer to the head, and reshape misshapen or irregular-looking ears to
make them appear normal.
Healthy individuals looking to improve the appearance of large,
prominent or misshapen ears may be good candidates for otoplasty. The
procedure can be performed as early as age seven years, which can help
to lessen the psychological and emotional discomfort that children may
otherwise endure. Otoplasty is also performed on adults.
Otoplasty can be performed once the ears are fully grown, which
typically occurs around the age of seven. There are many benefits to
performing the surgery at an early age as it can lessen the emotional
and psychological discomfort a child may otherwise have to endure.
During the consultation with Dr. Ashutosh Shah you will discuss what it
is that you dislike about your ears and what you hope to achieve through
surgery. Your ears will be examined, a thorough medical history taken,
and your options discussed. All details of the procedure will be
explained and any questions or concerns that you may have will be
addressed.
There are different techniques for otoplasty depending on the
particular problem. Incisions are typically located in the back of the
ear. The cartilage may be sculpted and the ear bent back toward the
head, sometimes with the use of non-removable stitches to hold the new
shape. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove a piece of cartilage
in order to create a more natural-looking fold.
Otoplasty usually takes one to two hours to perform.
The incisions for otoplasty are often hidden ones located behind the ear.
Though the incisions made for otoplasty do result in scars, they are hidden as they are usually located behind the ears.
Some throbbing or aching of the ears may occur during the first few days. This can be managed with medication.
Patients can expect a recovery time of about one week after
otoplasty. Some throbbing and aching of the ears may occur which can be
managed with medication. Swelling, numbness, and redness may also occur.
Bandages applied after surgery are replaced with a lighter,
headband-like dressing within a few days. Stitches are removed within
about two weeks or absorbable sutures will dissolve on their own.
Patients can usually return to work or school within five to seven days.
Strenuous activities and contact sports may need to be postponed for about one to two months.
The stitches are removed in about two week after otoplasty. Absorbable sutures will dissolve on their own.
As with all types of surgery, there are potential risks associated with
otoplasty and these may include adverse anesthesia reactions, blood
clot, excessive scarring, infection, mismatched or artificial-looking
ears, and recurrence of the protrusion.
Usually secondary surgery is not required but for similarity touch up operation may be required.
Otoplasty is sometimes covered by insurance. Patients should consult with their own insurance company.
There are financing options available for many plastic surgery and
cosmetic surgery procedure. In our clinic you can get 0% interest EMI
loan.