Otoplasty
Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that can be used to change the shape, position, or size of the ears. It is a common procedure that can be performed on adults and children.
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a good option for people who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears. It can be used to correct a variety of ear deformities, including:
- Protruding ears
- Lop ears
- Cupped ears
- Bent ears
Otoplasty can also be used to improve the appearance of ears that have been injured or deformed in an accident.
What are the risks of otoplasty?
All surgery carries some risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Numbness or tingling in the ears
- Scarring
What happens during otoplasty?
Otoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia in adults and under general anaesthesia in children. There are a variety of surgical techniques available to restore shape and pin the ears back. Mr Jabir will choose the technique most appropriate to your situation in discussion with you during your consultation, but in general it involves making incisions behind the ears and then repositioning the cartilage and skin of the ears. The incisions will then be stitched closed.
How long does otoplasty take?
Otoplasty typically takes 1-2 hours. You can go home the same day after surgery.
What is the recovery time for otoplasty?
The recovery time for otoplasty is typically around 2 weeks. You will need to wear a headband or compression bandage for at least 2 weeks full-time and then another 2 weeks at night. You will also need to avoid strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks.
What are the results of otoplasty?
Otoplasty can produce dramatic results, giving you ears that are more symmetrical and proportionate to your face. However, it is important to remember that no surgery is perfect, and there will always be a scar at the surgical incision site.
Here are some additional tips for patients considering otoplasty:
- Be realistic about your expectations. Otoplasty cannot completely change the appearance of your ears.
- Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in otoplasty.
- Ask your surgeon about their aftercare plan.
- Be prepared for a lengthy recovery period.
- Be patient with your results. It can take up to a year for your ears to fully heal.
Here are some frequently asked questions about otoplasty:
- What is the difference between otoplasty and pinnaplasty? Otoplasty and pinnaplasty are both surgical procedures that can be used to change the appearance of the ears. However, otoplasty is a more general term that can be used to describe any procedure that is performed on the ears, while pinnaplasty is a more specific term that is used to describe procedures that are performed on the pinna, which is the external part of the ear.
