The Effect of Otoplasty
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, reduces the size of large ears or ‘pins’ them back closer to the head to so they protrude less.
The Otoplasty Procedure
The Otoplasty Procedure
The exact specifics of the procedure depend on the requirements of the individual.
Best Candidates for Otoplasty
The best candidates for otoplasty are:
- Children between the ages of 4-14
- Adults in good health
There are a variety of ear problems that can also be helped with surgery. These include: lop ear, cupped ear and shell ear.
Risks
All surgery carries risk, and you should be fully aware of the medical risks associated with this procedure before you consent to surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation, and you are encouraged to ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
More details about your consultation.
You will be required to sign a consent form before surgery stating that you have been informed of the risks involved; that you understand those risks; and that you accept those risks. This is standard hospital protocol and surgery will not be performed if you do not sign.
More details about the required forms.
It is your obligation to inform your surgeon of key medical information that may influence the outcome of your surgery or may increase the level of risk. These include medications you are taking, history of disease, medical complications, etc.
Risks and risk rates vary from patient to patient depending on a range of factors. No two people are alike. The risks listed below are possible risks associated with this type of surgery and are mentioned regardless of how remote the possibility:
Infection of cartilage. Excessive scarring. Blood clot that may need to be drained. Mismatched or artificial- looking ears. Recurrence of the protrusion, requiring repeat surgery.
More details about the risks involved in plastic surgery
Surgery
Time required: 2-3 hours
Anesthesia: General or local with sedation
Side effects
Temporary throbbing
Aching and swelling
Redness and numbness
Otoplasty Recovery Time
Back to work or school: 5-7 days
Strenuous activity or contact sports: 1-3 months
Please note that this information should be used only as a guide to your treatment. All specifics will be discussed with your physician at your consultation.
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