[vc_single_image image=”32292″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Ear Surgery(otoplasty)”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502692831268{padding-right: 20px !important;}”]Also known as otoplasty or ear reshaping
Cosmetic surgery of the ear, or otoplasty, is an aesthetic procedure that alters the size, position, or proportion of the ears. The outcome of ear reshaping surgery varies greatly depending on the changes that are desired, but these procedures generally improve self-confidence, especially in children and teenagers. If the ears stick out, ear pinning can be performed to flatten the ears against the head. If one ear is positioned higher than the other, ear repositioning can create symmetry. Large, oversized ears can be addressed alone or in conjunction with other ear issues.[vc_custom_heading text=”When to Consider Ear Surgery” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502692932836{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- If you were born with overly large or small ears
- If your ears are disproportionate to your head or oddly placed
- If your ears stick out prominently
- If you have suffered an injury that has negatively impacted the shape or positioning of your ears
[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Considerations”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502697285209{padding-right: 20px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Pros” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502692932836{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Ear surgery can improve the shape and proportion of your ears.
- Ear surgery can provide a boost to your self-confidence and is a low-risk procedure that can be performed on children over the age of five.
- Results generally last a lifetime with minimal fluctuations.
[vc_custom_heading text=”Cons” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”][gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Young children might have trouble dealing with aftercare and recovery.
- Ear symmetry may be affected.
- Permanent scarring or numbness of the ear or face may result.
These are the top three pros and cons to weigh when considering ear surgery. If you want to focus on what is unique to you, please consult with your aesthetic plastic surgeon.[vc_custom_heading text=”Are you a good candidate for ear surgery?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]The following are some common reasons why you may want to consider ear surgery:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- If your ears have reached their full size, which usually happens around age six. Children are common patients for this procedure.
- A set-back otoplasty, which is a procedure to reduce the prominence of ears that stick out too much, can be performed on adults as well as children.
If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Ear surgery procedure steps “][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502693563256{padding-right: 20px !important;}”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502693629300{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading text=”Step 1 – Anesthesia” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include local, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.[vc_custom_heading text=”Step 2 – The incision” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Correction of protruding ears uses surgical techniques to create or increase the antihelical fold (just inside the rim of the ear) and to reduce enlarged conchal cartilage (the largest and deepest concavity of the external ear). Incisions for otoplasty are generally made on the back surface of the ear. When incisions are necessary on the front of the ear, they are made within its folds to hide them. Internal, nonremovable sutures are used to create and secure the newly shaped cartilage in place.[vc_single_image image=”31870″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_custom_heading text=”Step 3 – Closing the incisions” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]External stitches close the incision. Techniques are individualized, taking care not to distort other structures and to avoid an unnatural “pinned back” appearance.[vc_single_image image=”31871″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_custom_heading text=”Step 4 – See the results” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Ear surgery offers near immediate results in cases of protruding ears, visible once the dressings that support the new shape of the ear during initial phases of healing are removed. With the ear permanently positioned closer to the head, surgical scars are either hidden behind the ear or well-hidden in the natural creases of the ear.[vc_single_image image=”31872″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_custom_heading text=”What will my ear surgery incisions and scars be like?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]The location of your incisions will depend largely on what changes you wish to make. However, you can expect the incisions to be made in inconspicuous locations, either in the back of your ear where it connects to the head, or within the inner folds of your ear.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Selecting a Surgeon”][vc_custom_heading text=”Select a surgeon you can trust” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]It’s important to choose your surgeon based on:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Education, training, and certification
- Experience with ear surgery
- Your comfort level with him or her
Members of the Iranian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery are experienced and qualified to perform your aesthetic procedure.
After finding a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who is experienced in performing ear surgery, you will need to make an office appointment to set up your consultation. Generally, because of the in-depth nature of the consultation, there is a cost associated with the initial visit.[vc_custom_heading text=”Your initial consultation appointment” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]During your first consultation, you’ll discuss the details of ear surgery and review the results you’d like to see. Your surgeon will evaluate you as a candidate for ear surgery, and will evaluate the shape, size, and placement of your ears to determine what sort of changes may be possible. He or she will likely examine both of your ears, even if you think only one needs pinning or reshaping. The surgeon may also take photos of your ears and face to help further investigate the proportions of your facial features. Alternative and additional treatments may also be considered.
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your complete medical history. This will include information about:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Previous surgeries
- Past and present medical conditions
- Allergies and current medications
[vc_custom_heading text=”Your treatment plan” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Based on your goals, physical characteristics, and the surgeon’s years of training and experience, your surgeon will share recommendations and information with you, including:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- An approach to your surgery, including the type of procedure or combination of procedures
- The outcomes that you can anticipate
- Your financial investment in the procedure
- Associated risks and complications
- Options for anesthesia and surgery location
- What is needed to prepare for the surgery
- What you can expect to experience after surgery
- Share before-and-after photos of cases that are similar to yours and answer any questions.
[vc_custom_heading text=”Questions to ask your aesthetic plastic surgeon” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]For a general list of questions to ask your surgeon about his background, to find out about plastic surgery safety, and to plan your procedure.
We developed these questions to help you:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Make the most informed and intelligent decision about your procedure
- Confirm that you have the right surgeon for your procedure
- Make your initial consultation as rewarding as possible
- Understand your options, potential outcomes, and risks
It is important for you to take an active role in your surgery, so please use this list of questions as a starting point for your initial consultation.[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Am I a good candidate for ear surgery, otoplasty, ear reshaping, or ear pinning?
- Are my desired results reasonable and realistic?
- Do you have ear surgery before-and-after photos I can look at?
- Which procedure or method would work best for my ears?
- Where do you plan to make the incision, and will the scars be visible?
- What kind of anesthesia do you recommend for me?
- What will be the cost of my ear surgery?
- What will you expect of me to get the best results?
- What kind of recovery period can I expect, and when can I resume normal activities?
- What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure?
- How are complications handled?
- Will I able to change the look of my ears again after surgery?
[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502693718344{padding-right: 20px !important;}”][gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Preparing for Your Procedure”][vc_custom_heading text=”How do I prepare for a ear surgery procedure?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Your surgeon will provide thorough preoperative instructions, answer any questions you may have, take a detailed medical history, and perform a physical exam to determine your fitness for surgery. If your doctor asks you to undergo any pre-surgery testing, be sure to schedule well in advance of your procedure.
In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Stop smoking at least six weeks before your surgery to promote better healing.
- Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal medications that
can cause increased bleeding.[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after surgery for safe recovery.
- Practice good skincare. You should rinse the skin on and around your ears with warm water and use sunscreen.
Eating well, minimizing stress, and exercising frequently are important to make sure you are best prepared for your surgery. You should also plan ahead for the recovery period after your procedure by taking time off from work and ensuring that you have everything you’ll need close at hand while recovering.[vc_custom_heading text=”What can I expect on the day of ear surgery?” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]On the day of surgery, you’ll be asked not to take anything by mouth, including any food. You should only drink the minimal amount of water needed to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth—anything more than this could result in the cancellation of your surgery. Wear comfortable clothing on the day of your procedure.
Your ear surgery may be performed in an accredited hospital, free-standing ambulatory facility, or office-based surgical suite.[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure.
- General anesthesia is commonly during your ear procedure, although local anesthesia or intravenous sedation may be desirable in some instances.
- For your safety during the surgery, various monitors will be used to check your heart, blood pressure, pulse, and the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood.
- Your surgeon will follow the surgical plan discussed with you before surgery.
- After your procedure is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored.
You will probably be permitted to go home after a short observation period unless you and your plastic surgeon have made other plans for your immediate postoperative recovery.[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502693629300{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Aftercare and Recovery”]Your surgeon will discuss how long it will be before you can return to your normal level of activity and work. After surgery, you and your caregiver will receive detailed instructions about your postsurgical care, including information about:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Drains, if they have been placed
- Normal symptoms you will experience
- Potential signs of complication
It is vitally important that you follow all patient care instructions provided by your surgeon, and to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.[vc_custom_heading text=”Recovery time frame after ear surgery” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]You should have a responsible adult with you for at least the first twenty-four hours during your recovery period. For the first week of recovery, it’s important that you rest frequently, though you should still move around occasionally to keep blood flowing. To minimize discomfort, it’s recommended that you recline but keep your head elevated. Do not rest your head on the operated ear, as this can result in throbbing and general discomfort.
Your doctor will let you know when any dressing can be removed, and you may be asked to apply antibiotic ointment to the ears or perform other wound care treatment at home.
Approximately one week after your procedure, you will return to the doctor’s office. Your surgeon may remove stitches at this time, though absorbable stitches are often used, which do not require removal.
Though recovery is unique for every patient, you can expect to return to work and any light activity after one week. In two weeks, your final results will be visible, though small changes to the ears can occur for up to twelve months.[vc_custom_heading text=”Immediately after surgery” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]Following the procedure, you will have dressing wrapped around your ears. Soon after the procedure, your doctor will remove this heavier bandage to inspect the ears, and will likely replace it with a lighter dressing. It’s essential to keep this dressing in place unless instructed to do otherwise by your doctor. Your surgeon may also prescribe medication to take during your recovery period.
Typically, you will be released from the hospital or ambulatory facility the same day as your procedure, but you must have someone drive you to and from the surgery.[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1502694998711{padding-right: 50px !important;}”][gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”How Long Will the Results Last?”]Results from ear surgery are typically life-long, barring any incidents which impact the shape or proportion of the ears.[vc_custom_heading text=”Maintain a relationship with your aesthetic plastic surgeon” font_container=”tag:h4|font_size:18|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Montserrat%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal”]For safety, as well as the most beautiful and healthy outcome, it’s important to return to your plastic surgeon’s office for follow-up evaluation at prescribed times and whenever you notice any changes in your ears. Do not hesitate to contact your surgeon when you have any questions or concerns.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Associated Costs”]The cost of ear surgery or otoplasty varies from doctor to doctor and from one geographic area to another.
These numbers only reflect the physician/surgeon fees and do not include fees for the surgical facility, anesthesia, medical tests, prescriptions, surgical garments, or other miscellaneous costs related to ear surgery.
Because otoplasty is elective surgery, insurance does not cover these costs. Many surgeons offer patient financing plans to make the procedure more affordable.
Choose your surgeon based on quality, training, and experience—not cost.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Limitations and Risks”]There are few risks associated with ear surgery, but as with any invasive surgery, there’s always a potential for complications. It’s important to be in regular contact with your surgeon after your procedure to ensure you are on the right track to recovery.
Some of the potential complications of all surgeries are:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
- Infection and bleeding
- Changes in sensation
- Scarring
- Allergic reactions
- Damage to underlying structures
- Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures
Following your procedure, it’s normal for your ears to swell and feel tender. You may also see redness around the affected area and experience tingling in the outer ear, though this will reduce over time.
If you notice any of the following issues during your otoplasty recovery, it’s essential that you contact your surgeon immediately:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Swelling or redness that lasts for longer than two weeks
- A fever higher than 101 degrees
- Dizziness, nausea, or incoherent behavior such as hallucinations
- Severe pain that cannot be controlled with any prescribed pain medication
- Excessive bleeding in or around your ears
- Any severe disproportion in your ears, particularly if it looks as though fluid is collecting in one ear.
The rare but potential risks associated with ear surgery are:[gem_list type=”snowflake-style-1″ color=”2″]
- Scarring, though most scars will be small, white, and unnoticeable
- Alterations in the sensitivity of the skin on or around your ears
- Bleeding or infection
- Asymmetry in the positioning of your ears due to changes that occur postoperatively
If you notice any of these issues, get in touch with your surgeon as soon as possible to discuss plans for further treatment.
You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your board-certified plastic surgeon, both before and after your ear surgery.[gem_icon_with_title icon_pack=”material” level=”h2″ icon_material=”f526″ icon_color=”#000000″ title=”Ear surgery words to know “]Antihelical fold
A fold that is just inside the rim of the ear.
Conchal cartilage
The largest and deepest concavity of the external ear.
Constricted ear
Also called a lop or cup ear, has varying degrees of protrusion, reduced ear circumference, folding or flattening of the upper helical rim and lowered ear position.
Cryptotia
Also called hidden ear, occurs when the upper rim of the ear is buried beneath a fold of scalp secondary to abnormal folding of the upper ear cartilage toward the head. The folding is the reverse of that commonly seen in the protruding ear.
Ear axis
The main line of ear growth.
General anesthesia
Drugs and/or gases used during an operation to relieve pain and alter consciousness.
Intravenous sedation
Sedatives administered by injection into a vein to help you relax.
Macrotia
Overly large ears; a rare condition.
Microtia
The most complex congenital ear deformity when the outer ear appears as either a sausage-shaped structure resembling little more than the earlobe, or has more recognizable parts of the concha and tragus or other normal ear features. It may or may not be missing the external auditory or hearing canal. Hearing is impaired to varying degrees.
Otoplasty
A surgical procedure also known as ear surgery to improve the shape, position or proportion of the ear.
Stahl’s ear
An ear that is distorted in shape due to an abnormal fold of cartilage.