 Protruding Ears (Otoplasty)
The purpose of Otoplasty is to prevent the protruding ears interfering with the normal facial and head appearance. This is accomplished by re-aligning the protruding ears with the cheeks, and changing the angle at which the ears grow out from the skull itself. Abnormally shaped ears can be re-sculpted, and the size reduced of oversized ears. In short, the object is to change the "wing-nut" look, and with it the embarrassment that that causes. It is not uncommon for children as young as six to undergo corrective surgery for this condition. However, many adults harbour the desire for a way out of the misery caused by this cruel twist of nature, having carefully grown their hair to hide the problem from view. Surgery takes about 45 minutes and is easily carried out under local anaesthetic. Apart from just a little pain from the injection itself, the procedure is painless. Afterwards, a bandage is placed round the head covering the ears. This is removed on the fourth day. The procedure involves the cartilage, which supports and shapes the ear, being reshaped (abraded) to appear normal. Additionally, the ear then bends more naturally into a better shape. This method is far preferable to the cartilage being cut, or where the shape is forced using sutures. Healing
The wound is on the back of the ear and stitched with sutures which will dissolve within a couple of weeks. The scar, stretching for a few centimetres behind the ear will hardly be visible. After surgery, for 6 to 12 hours a paracetemol type of painkiller is taken to relieve any pain that might be experienced. Then, no more pain should be felt, although the ears will be tender to the touch. The following day all pain disappears. The bandage is applied with a little pressure on the ears to reduce the risk of bleeding and to diminish swelling. During the first four days, the bandage assists sleeping, protecting the tender ears from the pillow. When the bandage is removed the ears will assume a new character straight away although some discolouration and swelling will be seen. It is preferable to avoid sleeping on the ears themselves for between 10 to 14 days after surgery. The tenderness will slowly diminish for up to 12 weeks. Complications
Very rare indeed. Postoperative bleeding can occur within hours following surgery. Infection is virtually unknown following this procedure. The Result
Whether the patient opts for a folded-in ear appearance, or a more modest change, the outcome is extreme improvement with ears of normal appearance. The surgical method we employ has none of the disadvantages of other procedures of Otoplasty. |
