Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to alter the shape, position, or size of the ears. It is typically performed on adults and children over the age of 5 who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears or who have suffered from an injury or birth defect. The procedure can also be used to correct structural abnormalities that affect hearing.
Otoplasty is used to correct a range of cosmetic and functional concerns with the ears, including:
- Protruding ears
- Asymmetrical ears
- Lop ears
- Microtia (underdeveloped ears)
- Macrotia (overdeveloped ears)
- Torn or stretched earlobes
- Damage or deformities caused by injury or trauma
What are the benefits of the procedure?
The benefits of otoplasty surgery can vary depending on why a person decides to have the procedure. The benefits of the procedure include:
- Enhanced physical appearance
- Increased self-confidence
- Correction of congenital deformities
- Improved hearing
- Minimal scarring
- Natural-looking and long-lasting results
Am I a suitable candidate for the procedure?
A person in good health with reasonable expectations for the procedure’s results is the ideal candidate for otoplasty. Children as young as five years old, as well as adults of any age, can undergo otoplasty. It is crucial to note that otoplasty cannot be done until the ears have completely developed. Candidates should also be mentally stable and not be pursuing the procedure to fulfill the expectations of others.
What should I expect before the procedure?
During your consultation, the doctor will review your medical history, examine your ears, and discuss your goals for the procedure. They may also ask you to complete certain medical tests or evaluations to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
If you are a good candidate for otoplasty surgery, the doctor will go over any pre-operative instructions with you. They will probably ask you to avoid taking blood-thinning medications and smoking before and after surgery and to arrange for someone to drive you home on the day of the procedure.
What should I expect during the procedure?
Depending on the patient’s choice, general or local anesthesia is used during otoplasty surgery. The otoplasty procedure usually takes between one and two hours to complete.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision behind the ear to access the cartilage. The cartilage is then reshaped, repositioned, or removed, depending on the desired outcome. The surgeon may also remove excess skin or tissue if necessary. In some cases, the surgeon may use sutures to hold the cartilage in place and create a more natural-looking appearance.
Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches. The head is wrapped in a thick bandage for a week to support the ears, reduce swelling, and promote healing.
What should I expect after the procedure?
After the otoplasty surgery, you may experience discomfort, swelling, or bruising, but this is normal and should subside within a few days. You will be given pain medication following surgery to manage any discomfort.
The recovery time after otoplasty surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Within a week of surgery, you can return to work or school, but you should avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks to allow for proper healing. In addition, you should avoid sleeping on your side for at least two weeks after the procedure to prevent damage to the ears.
Your surgeon will provide you with post-operative instructions that you should follow to ensure that your ears heal properly and that you achieve the best possible results from the procedure.
What are the expected results following otoplasty?
Otoplasty can significantly improve the appearance and function of the ears. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can prepare yourself mentally and physically and achieve a successful outcome.
If you are considering otoplasty surgery, consult a qualified surgeon who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your desired results.
Schedule your appointment at Novomed today!
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your ears and interested in otoplasty surgery, call toll-free 800 (NOVO) 6686 or complete the online booking form to schedule an appointment at one of our clinics in Abu Dhabi.
