Otoplasty Ear Correction/Reshaping

Typically, the normal outer ear projects from the side of the head at an angle of about 20 to 35 degrees. However, in some individuals, this angle is more than 35 degrees, resulting in the appearance of overt protrusion. This occurs when:

• There is an excess of cartilage making the Ear to protrude or be prominent.
• The ridge of cartilage at the top of the ear does not fold properly as it develops, resulting in ears that “Stick Out”.
• The Ear is injured.

Whilst prominent ears usually occur on both sides, occasionally the problem may affect only one ear. However, both ears may have to be operated for the best possible balance.

The technique used will depend on the problem. With one of the more common techniques, a small incision is made behind the ear, in the groove between the ear and the side of the head to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage will then be scored, and bent back toward the head. Non-removable sutures may be used to help maintain the new shape. Small pieces of cartilage will be removed if necessary prior to reshaping and closure.

Another technique involves a similar incision in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear without removing cartilage.

If the ear lobe is also large, then it is possible to reduce its size during the same operation. A thorough consultation is necessary to determine your suitability and discuss treatment options, as every case is different.

Most patients will experience tender ears for several weeks following their surgery. The primary goal during the recovery period is to support the ears so the cartilage can strengthen. Normally a pressure-type dressing is placed over the ears for 24 to 48 hours which is then replaced with a smaller dressing or a headband. At about one week post-op the sutures are removed (if non-dis-solvable), and we recommend that the patient wears a protective headband or bandage when sleeping for the next 2-3 weeks, so as to avoid the ears being bent forward against the pillow. Most patients experience tender ears for several weeks following surgery. The natural folds and swelling should resolve over one to two weeks. While patients can normally return to work within a week, they should avoid activities that could cause trauma or injury to the ears during the recovery period. Physical contact sports, such as judo, rugby, or football should be avoided for at least 3 months. Swimming should be avoided for up to 8 weeks after surgery.

Cosmetic surgery is amongst the very safest of medical procedures. However, all patients must understand and accept that no surgical procedure is absolutely free from risk. For information concerning the risks and complications associated with Ear Correction, please refer to Risks and Complications of Otoplasty. At Consultation, Mr Rezai will discuss these risks with you.

Otoplasty has one of the highest patient satisfaction rates in cosmetic surgery. For most patients the results of their ear surgery are permanent. However, in a few cases, minor adjustment surgery may be required. It is important to understand that no two ears are made exactly the same. This means that, while the aim with surgery is to make both ears similar to each other in size and projection, the contours will always be different and that achieving perfect symmetry is impossible.