Q&As on Otoplasty

1. What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, often known as ear reshaping operation, is a cosmetic surgery altering the ears’ size, shape, or protrusion.

It is a procedure that may be performed on individuals of any age when the ears have developed to their full size, which typically occurs at the age of five and continues throughout adulthood. There are different types of Otoplasty depending on the ear condition. 

Ear pinning surgery, which reduces the prominence of the ears by moving them near to the head, is the most popular kind of Otoplasty.

2. What are the advantages of Otoplasty?

Otoplasty can boost your confidence and self-esteem, particularly if you have ears that are visibly huge and protrude. In addition to addressing troubles brought on by blunt-force trauma or injuries like having piercings accidentally pulled out, it may also reconstruct  congenital ear problems like Microtia and Anotia. 

It can also make it easier for individuals with ear deformities to wear glasses or earrings. Also, it reduces the likelihood of school-aged kids being teased, which is why many parents of children with enormous ears choose to have otoplasty treatments. 

3. How is Otoplasty done?

Otoplasty surgery may take several steps depending on the patient’s anatomy and cosmetic objectives. To reach the ear cartilage, often a cut is made in the rear of the ear. The ear cartilage is subsequently folded or bent into a more advantageous form using permanent, non-absorbable sutures. Some procedures also include removing a few slivers of extra ear cartilage, which may aid in repositioning the ears and reduce their prominence.

After the Otoplasty, the ears will be bandaged for support and safety. Your surgeon will take off the bandages a few days following the Otoplasty. You may have to sleep for a few weeks with a loose headband covering your ears. 

4. Does Otoplasty result in scars?

Otoplasty surgery won’t leave any visible scars behind. Fortunately, this procedure makes imperceptible incisions in places that may be readily concealed. This may be a crucial consideration for anyone considering this surgery, especially for parents who want it done on their kids.

For instance, incisions are often made in the folds or behind the ear. When the treatment is performed at a younger age, scars will also be less prone to appear. This is so that scars may heal more quickly while young and seem less noticeable as they age.

5. What kind of risks come with Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a technique that only affects the external portion of the ear. Therefore, there will be no change to your hearing. For otoplasty, choose a board-certified surgeon who specialises in cosmetic surgeries. In that case, there is very little chance that you will have any complications due to your otoplasty surgery. 

Most of the scars will be hidden behind the ears. Ear infections may occur if the entrance wounds aren’t adequately healed or cared for. However, taking the post-operative prescribed medication regularly on time and proper follow-up with your doctor will result in a successful recovery.