Ear Correction Surgery
Why is ear correction surgery performed?
For years, you may have been dissatisfied with your appearance due to ears that are prominent, oversized, misshapen, or asymmetrical. There is a simple solution for this. A routine surgical intervention can change the position of the ears, freeing individuals from frustration and dissatisfaction with their appearance. Ear correction surgery is performed on both adults and children.
Various types of ear corrections include fixing prominent ears, reducing the size of the ear, resizing earlobes, and correcting asymmetry (different ear shapes).
At what age can ear correction surgery be performed?
Ears can be corrected once they have fully grown, which is typically after the age of 5. This procedure is also suitable for adults.
What should be avoided before ear correction surgery?
Restrictions primarily apply to adult patients. If you are an adult taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, blood-thinning drugs, vitamin C, or other supplements, you should stop using them at least one week before surgery to prevent excessive bleeding. Smokers should quit smoking before surgery and during the recovery period, as smoking negatively affects circulation and wound healing.
How is ear correction surgery performed?
Ear correction surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting. Local anesthesia is commonly used, but general anesthesia may be administered for very anxious children.
The surgical technique depends on the type of correction being performed. Incisions are made behind the ears or within the ear’s inner fold. During the procedure, the surgeon may remove excess skin or cartilage. The cartilage is then shaped into the desired position and secured with internal sutures. Additional sutures are used to close the external incisions.
Bandages are applied around the ears to protect them and provide support. These bandages are worn for seven days. On the seventh day, stitches and bandages are removed. For the following 15 days, a headband should be worn over the ears during sleep to maintain their new position.
How long does ear correction surgery take?
Ear correction surgery typically takes 1–2 hours.
Are there any risks associated with ear correction surgery?
Complications are extremely rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon. However, some patients may develop inflammation of the ear cartilage.
What will you feel after the surgery?
After ear correction surgery, you may feel discomfort and itching. Some individuals experience numbness and tingling for a few weeks. Temporary loss of skin sensitivity on the ears is also possible. Swelling may occur for a few days but subsides on its own.
Your surgeon will recommend pain relievers to manage any discomfort.
How should you behave after the surgery?
- Avoid pressing or rubbing your ears.
- Do not wash your hair until the bandages are removed.
- Sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on your ears.
- Wear clothing that does not need to be pulled over your head.
If bandages are not an aesthetic concern, you can return to your usual daily activities immediately.
After two weeks, you can resume swimming and other activities, taking care not to injure your ears.
When are bandages removed?
Bandages are removed 7–10 days after the procedure, at which time stitches are also taken out.
When are results visible, and how long do they last?
The results are noticeable immediately after bandages are removed, with the final outcome visible once swelling subsides. The change in ear position is permanent, and scars are practically invisible as they are located behind the ears.
FAQ
How long does recovery take after otoplasty?
Most patients return to their daily activities immediately after the dressings are removed, while full recovery and disappearance of swelling are expected within a few weeks.
Is the surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so there is minimal discomfort during the surgery. After the operation, mild discomfort may occur but is easily managed with prescribed pain relievers.
When do the final results become visible?
The final results are visible immediately after the bandages are removed, with the definitive shape of the ears becoming apparent once all swelling subsides.
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that adjusts the position, shape, or size of the ears, most commonly to address protruding ears.
When is the right time for ear surgery?
It is recommended to perform the surgery before a child starts school, typically around the age of 6 or 7, when the ear cartilage is fully developed and the aesthetic issue may affect the child’s confidence.
Who is a candidate for ear correction surgery?
Candidates include children with prominent ears and adults seeking to improve the aesthetic appearance of their ears or alleviate psychological discomfort associated with this condition.
Is ear prominence hereditary?
In most cases, ear prominence is the result of genetic factors and can develop during the prenatal period. However, it is not always exclusively hereditary.
How is ear surgery performed?
The surgery is performed under sedation or local anesthesia. An incision is made on the back of the ear, the cartilage is reshaped and folded back, and the ears are positioned in a more harmonious alignment. Scars are minimal and discreetly located.
How long is the recovery after ear surgery?
Recovery typically takes about 7–10 days. For the first 7 days, a bandage is worn 24/7, and for the following two weeks, it is worn only at night. Swelling and bruising usually subside within this period.
Is ear surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, ensuring that the patient does not experience pain during the surgery. Mild discomfort may occur postoperatively, but it is easily managed with pain relievers.
Will scars from ear surgery be visible?
Scars are minimal and located on the back of the ear, making them almost invisible.
What are the possible complications of ear surgery?
Complications are rare but can include infection, hematomas, or unsatisfactory aesthetic outcomes. Proper postoperative care significantly reduces these risks.
Does ear surgery affect hearing function?
No, ear surgery is purely a cosmetic procedure and does not affect hearing function.