Otoplasty – also known as cosmetic ear surgery – is a procedure to change the shape, position, or size of the ears.

Sticky ears are an aesthetic problem that affects individuals’ self-esteem regardless of age. If the problem is significant, the ears create a disturbing impression and draw attention unfavorably.

The problem of protruding ears is hereditary and is caused by the fact that the structure of the ears forms a larger angle between the ear and the head than usual. The ears are expected to be angled at an average distance of 1 cm from the head, and this anomaly occurs when the space is too great.

You can opt for otoplasty – plastic ear surgery if you are concerned about how far your ears stick out from your head. You may also consider this procedure if your ears are deformed due to an injury or congenital disability.

Otoplasty can be performed at any age after the ears reach full size – usually after five years until adulthood. Suppose a baby is born with prominent ears and some other issues with the shape of the ears. In that case, splinting can correct these problems immediately after birth.

You may consider otoplasty if:

  • Your ear or ears stick out too far from your head
  • Your ears are large in proportion to your head
  • You are not satisfied with the previous ear surgery

 

Otoplasty is usually done on both ears to optimize symmetry. Otoplasty will not change the position of the ears or the ability to hear.

Risks

Like any other type of major surgery, otoplasty has risks, including bleeding, infection, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia.

Other risks associated with otoplasty include:

  • While the scars are permanent, they are likely to be hidden behind the ears or in the folds of the ears.
  • Asymmetry in the placement of the ears. It can occur due to changes during the healing process. Also, surgery may not successfully correct existing asymmetry.
  • Changes in skin sensation. During otoplasty, specific changes in the position of the ears may temporarily affect the skin sensation in the area. Changes are rarely permanent.
  • Alergic reaction. It is possible to have an allergic reaction to surgical tape or other materials used during or after the procedure.
  • Problems with stitches. The stitches used to secure the ear’s new shape may come to the skin’s surface and need to be removed. In addition, it can cause inflammation of the affected skin.
  • Overcorrection. Otoplasty can create unnatural contours that make the ears appear pinned.

How to prepare

The doctor checks the patient’s medical history and medication use and examines the ears – location, size, shape, and symmetry. The patient’s expectations will be discussed. You will also need to plan to drive home and stay the first night of recovery.

Sometimes the procedure is performed with sedation and local anesthesia, which numbs only part of the body. In other cases, general anesthesia may be administered before the procedure.

Otoplasty techniques vary depending on what kind of correction is needed. The plastic surgeon’s specific method will determine the incisions’ location and resulting scars.

The doctor may make incisions:

  • On the back of the ears
  • In the inner folds of your ears
 

 

After the incisions, your doctor can remove the excess cartilage and skin, fold the cartilage back into place, and secure it with internal stitches. Then, additional stitches are used to close the incisions.

The procedure usually takes about two hours. After otoplasty, your ears will be covered with bandages for protection and support. You will probably feel some discomfort and itching.

It is not recommended to sleep on your side after the procedure.

 

Important information:

We will be happy to help you and offer a solution to your problem or your dream idea!

Each client is unique and has an individual situation in the field of health or aesthetics (appearance). For this reason, after consulting about his problems and needs, our specialists will propose the most suitable solution – the type of procedure or treatment and the time schedule, in case it is necessary to undergo the procedure or treatment more than once.

If you are interested in learning more, please contact us on phone number 00421 905 928 302, via the contact form or at the email address info@aladiva.sk.