Plastic surgery
Correction of prominent ears
Surgical correction of prominent ears, also known as ear plasty, otoplasty allows for the proper shaping of the auricle, which differs from anatomic and esthetic norms. Indications for surgery are primarily psychological factors – insecurities projecting on self-esteem, mental health and social activity. Surgery is carried out in situations where one or both antihelixes are prominent, which is most commonly caused by flattening of the antihelixes or enlargement of the concha.
What should I expect after the procedure?
Thanks to the operation, vast improvement is achieved in the appearance of the ears, which are more adjacent to the skull. Otoplasty also enables achieving symmetrical concha. In terms of popularity, ear plasty is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures. Patients of all ages undergo surgery, also children, who have problems dealing with their peers because of imperfections in their appearance.
How to prepare for the procedure?
Otoblasty is always preceded by a physical examination, which allows the patient’s expectation to be determined with respect to the appearance of the ears and determines the possibility of achieving the desired effect. In the case of children, it is extremely important to prepare them mentally for this operation – informing them of unpleasant consequences, primarily those associated with postoperative pain.
What to expect during surgery?
Depending on the age of the patient, local anaesthetic (adults) or general anaesthetic (children) is applied during ear plasty. The procedure involves making an incision on the posterior surface of the concha and corresponding modeling with the help of appropriate cuts and putting in of internal stitches. The outer wound closes with the help of stitches – soluble or insoluble. The scale and location of the surgical wound make the scar barely visible. Children are often hospitalized for one day after surgery; however, adults may go home right after the otoplasty.
What to expect during convalescence?
In the first days after the surgery, different degrees of pain may be experienced, which can be eliminated with the help of over the counter pain killers. Stitches are removed after about 9 days, and another check-up is necessary after 6 weeks. In order to achieve the intended esthetic effect, it is necessary to follow the doctor’s indications, in particular, wearing a special head band for two weeks, avoiding situations that can cause the ear to bend or cause other mechanical damage. It is forbidden to play contact sports two months before surgery.