Generally about the treatment
Ear surgery of large and deformed ears (officially called otoplasty) serves the purpose of correcting deformities of the ear, whether it is has do with big or asymmetrical ears, or other forms of deformities.
Children as well as adults with deformed ears, often suffer from low self esteem and emotional complexes. Ear surgery will not only give the patient a more aesthetically pleasing set of ears, but it will also add to the individual's self-esteem, meaning af better quality of life.
This operation is often performed in combination with other cosmetic facial surgery in order to improve the appearance.
Suitability
Women as well as men, with a good health and realistic expectations for the result, make good candidates for ear surgery (otoplasty).
The procedure
There are several techniques for the execution of ear surgery, all depending of the individual case.
The ear is often corrected by operating on the backside of the ear, where an incision is made, after which the skin on the back and front side of the ear is loosened from the cartilage.
Next, the ear is reshaped in order to achieve the best possible cosmetic result. The skin is then sewn together on the backside of the ear. Finally, threads are put through the ear in order to hold the ear in place in its new shape.
Immediately after the surgery, you will be provided with a head bandage to protect the ears, and to achieve a more succesful healing process. After a week or so, the bandage is replaced with plasters on the scars on the backside of the ear.
Anaesthesia
Ear surgery normally takes place under local anaesthesia combined with soothing medicine, and is most often performed on an outpatient basis.
Side-effects
Headaches, soreness, swelling, intense blushing or bluish, discoloured ears, as well as numbness.
Risk of complications
Asymmetric ears, or ears that appear artificial, which is why a second operation may become necessary. Infection, pronounced scar formation, accumulation of blood, which then will need draining.
There is a risk of side effects from the anaesthetic used, along with bleeding, poor wound healing, a poor cosmetic result, and blood accumulation.
No form of surgery is risk free, although severe complications are very rare.
Healing and recovery
Normally, school and work can be resumed after 5 to 7 days after the surgery. It is advised to wait with demanding and strenuous activities, as well as contact sports, until after 1-2 months.
Duration of the result
1-3 hours depending on the extent.