Ears
Otoplasty, or ear surgery, aims to reshape protruding ears resulting from a malformation of the ear cartilage.
This surgery may performed on adults or children, from the age of 7.
Indications
- Too great an angle between back of the concha and the side of the head.
- Excessive conchal cartilage, forcing the ear to stick out.
- Malformation of the antihelix cartilage, making the ear appear too smooth.
Before the operation
The doctor examines the ears in order to make a diagnosis and define the type of intervention required. Hair should be cut short or pulled back from the ears Both the patient’s head and hair must be thoroughly washed the evening before the operation.
If patients are taking aspirin or anti-inflammatories, they must stop taking this treatment at least 10 days before surgery.
During the operation
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
- The incisions are made in the fold behind the ear.
- The skin is lifted to gain access to the cartilage.
- The cartilage is reshaped to improve the contours and the angle.
Patients will experience moderate pain after ear surgery that can be treated with painkillers. Some swelling (oedema) and bruising will occur. All these post-operative symptoms usually disappear quickly. A compression band must be worn for 2 weeks, then only at night for a few more weeks.
Results
To fully appreciate the results of the surgery, it is necessary to wait 1 to 2 months. During this time, the tissues will recover their suppleness and the scars will fade. The contours of the ear will then be visible.
