Ear Correction (Otoplasty)
Alter the contour and size of the ear cartilage, or earlobe, to change the shape of the ear
What is an otoplasty?
An otoplasty refers to any procedure that is performed to change the shape or contour of the ear, or to repair traumatic defects.
Most commonly, this refers to a procedure designed to change the shape of the ears and to cause them to sit closer to the side of the head. This is performed in both children and adults.
It can also include procedures designed to correct the effects of ear piercings that have become too large, such that earrings fall out, or to repair a split in the earlobe from having an earring accidently pulled through.
What are the benefits of the procedure?
The surgery is typically undertaken to change the shape and size of the ear cartilage to allow the ear to be repositioned closer to the scalp. Although there is no ‘normal’ ear shape or position, this surgery aims to alter the shape of the ear so that it appears more ‘average’ and will no longer be noticed as being different. This surgery can be medically indicated in specific circumstances in children under 18 years of age.
Is Mr Morgan experienced in this procedure?
Mr Morgan has performed these procedures many times in both children and adults. At your consultation, he will be able to show photos of his other patients who have undergone this procedure to give a sense of what change can be achieved. These results are specific to these patients, and may not accurately reflect the types of result you may achieve. All results can vary for a number of reasons, including differences in genetics and original appearance, as well as differences in healing and recovery. Despite all care being taken, complications can and do occur, and can also affect the final result. Occasionally, revisional surgery is required.
How is it performed?
Ear correction surgery that involves manipulation of the cartilage framework is performed under general anaesthesia and can take approximately an hour to undertake. Most patients go home the same day (day surgery). The cartilage framework is accessed and manipulated through an incision on the back surface of the ear, so there are no scars visible to the patient. Once the surgery is completed, a large padded bandage is wrapped around the ears and head to hold them in their new position and protect them. This remains in place for just over a week before being removed at your initial post-operative appointment.
Procedures performed on the earlobe only can usually be done under local anaesthetic, and will often be performed in the office procedure room.
How long will I need to recover?
Post-operative pain and discomfort is usually limited to the first few days. Discomfort from the bandage can be annoying until it is removed. At the first post-operative appointment the new shape of the ears will be visible, but the ears will still be bruised and swollen at this time. This will continue to settle over the next few weeks. Patients are encouraged to wear a soft headband to bed for a total of 6 weeks to protect them further while they heal. The ears will remain numb and stiff for several months, before finally beginning to feel soft and normal again. Generally, most patients will have recovered sufficiently in two weeks to return to social activity and office-based work. More physical activity will require extra time.
Specific Risks and Complications
Ear correction (Otoplasty) surgery has several potential specific risks:
Bleeding, infection, poor quality or visible scars, asymmetry, irregularity in the ear cartilage, changes to earlobe shape and position, permanent numbness in the ears, recurrence of the original shape, dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome, need for revisional surgery
This is not an exhaustive list of potential risks. Every patient responds differently to surgery and anaesthesia, and can heal and recover differently. Individual results can vary. The results experienced by one patient do not always reflect the results other patients may achieve. Potential outcomes and possible variations will be discussed during your consultations
All Surgical Procedures Carry Risks
Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified medical practitioner.
Individual results may vary due to a number of factors, including genetics, and variations in healing and recovery, and the potential for complications. The outcomes experienced by one person do not necessarily reflect the outcomes that other people may experience. Potential outcomes and possible variations will be discussed during your consultations
Cosmetic surgery is real surgery, and will most often require a general anaesthetic. All surgery will require a period of recovery before returning to normal activity, as outlined in the particular procedure information. Although uncommon, complications can and do occur, and may affect the final result of your surgery. The potential risks will be discussed fully during your consultations, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about the various risks in your particular circumstances. Risks may include the general risks of surgery, as well as the risks specific to the procedure, and include poor quality scarring, excessive bruising and swelling, infection, bleeding, pain, asymmetry, nerve injury, anaesthetic complications, drug reactions, unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes, the need for further surgery, and permanent disability and death.
As a specialist plastic surgeon, Mr Morgan is appropriately trained and qualified to deal with complications of surgery, including the ability to admit you to hospital, if required.
Who should consider this type of surgery?
The best results are achieved in those with a clearly defined concern and realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve. In situations where this is not the case, the outcome from surgery may often be disappointing.
You should not consider this type of surgery as a response to a personal or professional crisis, or under the encouragement of somebody else. Any decision to undergo surgery needs to be for the right reasons. All surgery entails an element of risk, and you should not make any decision regarding surgery at a time of stress.
Being healthy and happy with your decision increases the chances of achieving a satisfactory result. Smoking, other medical conditions, and being overweight can make surgery unsafe. These and other risks will be discussed with you at the time of your consultation.
Otoplasty
If you are interested in this procedure for you or your child but aren’t sure where to go from here contact our friendly team today. We will be able to organise an assessment and talk you through all the information and risks specific to you and your situation.
If you would like to know more, or to book an appointment, please contact us today.