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What is Ear Surgery (Otoplasty or Pinnaplasty)?
The aim of Otoplasty or Pinnaplasty, also known as ear correction surgery is to improve the contour and shape of the ears. Ears that stick out can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness for children and adults alike and can make them easy targets for teasing, jokes and nicknames. This is why often the sooner in life cosmetic surgery for ear correction is carried out, the better.
When an ear is noticeably prominent in babies just few weeks old, it is possible to reshape the ear solely by applying a small splint to the rim. At such an early age the cartilage is very easily moulded, so ear correction surgery can be avoided. The older the child, the more stiff the cartilage becomes, and after six months it is too hard to be remoulded and would need surgery to correct the ears.
When an ear is noticeably prominent in babies a few weeks old, it is possible to reshape the ear solely by applying a small splint to the rim, as the cartilage is very easily moulded at this stage. The older the child, the more stiff the cartilage becomes, and after six months it is too hard to be remoulded without surgery.
Why is Ear Correction Surgery popular and what are the benefits?
Otoplasty or Pinnaplasty is an operation which adjusts the shape of the cartilage within the ear to correct and create the missing folds and allows the ear to lie flatter against the side of the head. Ear correction surgery offers dramatic, immediate results that will be permanent.
What does Ear Correction Surgery involve?
Ear correction surgery can be performed under either local or general anaesthetic, though in young children a general anaesthetic is usually required. A small incision is made behind the ear, following the groove between the ear and the side of the head. If the earlobe is especially large, this may also be reduced and corrected.
A small dressing is applied after ear correction surgery and this is kept on until the stitches are removed, usually 7-10 days after surgery.
What are the risks and likely after-effects with Ear Correction Surgery?
Otoplasty carries the same small risk as any other procedure carried out under general anaesthetic. In a small number of ear correction patients (approximately 3%) scars can become thick and red, and may require further treatment. Infection is not common, but if it does occur can be treated effectively with antibiotics and regular dressing changes. Sometimes the dressing can chafe the ears to produce a break in the skin, which can take a long time to heal. The ears are often numb after ear correction surgery, and this normally takes several weeks to settle.
What will happen after Ear Correction Surgery?
Post-OP
Our surgeon will see you when you have come round from the anaesthetic to check that all is well, and will discharge you providing you are fit to return home. You will be given medication and full post-operative instructions along with appropriate telephone numbers in case you need to contact us at any time.
Week 1-2
You will see the nurse after 7-10 days so that she can check your progress and remove your dressing and stitches. After this, you can wash your hair normally. Following ear correction surgery, we recommend that a protective headband is worn when sleeping to avoid the ears being bent forward against the pillow.
Weeks 8-10
You will see your surgeon once more at between 8 and 10 weeks after your ear correction surgery for a full post-operative consultation.
Full Post-Operative Cover
We're confident that you will be delighted with the results of your otoplasty. For that reason, we guarantee that we will provide post-operative cover for a full three years after your procedure. It's our way of ensuring that you have peace of mind and confidence in LINIA. |
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