Ear surgery or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
How is Otoplasty performed?
Except in children, the operation is performed using Light Sleep Anesthesia. In children less than eight the operation is always performed under general anesthesia. All incisions are placed behind the ear so there are no visible scars after the operation. If the ears are protruding they may be rotated back. If some of the natural folds are missing they are created. Missing or abnormal sections of the ear may be constructed from tissues taken from other parts of the ear or from other areas of the body. Ears that have been injured, most commonly in wrestling, and are thickened can be thinned and sculpted. At the end of the operation a pressure dressing is worn.
The operation is generally performed in children around age six. The child generally follows instructions well because (s)he is so happy to have the problem repaired and pleased with the results.
Where are the incisions made?
The incisions will generally be made in the most inconspicuous places as behind the ear or within the natural folds and curvatures of the ear structure. Discuss with your doctor the incisions he plans on making for your desired results. Some removal of cartilage may be necessary.
What should I expect post-operatively?
The pressure dressing is removed after five to seven days. Children should be kept relatively quiet during that time. The dressing should not get wet. After removal of the dressing, a sweat band should be worn, at night only, to protect the ears until the end of the sixth post-operative week. Normal non-strenuous activity may be resumed two days after surgery. The patient should refrain from bending over for 3 weeks, keeping the head higher than the heart during that time. Nor should the patient sleep on his side for 3 weeks. Routine exercise may begin at the end of the fourth post-operative week. Contact sports may be restarted at the end of the sixth post-operative week.
Is it quite painful? Is there much bruising?
It takes about a week and a half for most of the swelling to subside, although it will be sensitive to light to medium pressure for about 3 weeks. There is really not much bruising with average cases, although it should be looked upon as individual. Some are prone to bruising more than others. Some doctors prescribe a pharmaceutical grade Arnica montana product called SinEcch and a topical ointment as well. These two products are thought to decrease both bruising and swelling in all procedures and in most cases have shown a significant decrease in both complaints. There is normally very little pain involved post-operatively.
When will I be able to see the results?
You shouldn’t even peek at it for 5 to 7 days until the pressure dressing is removed. If you do it could increase infection or the results may be altered by your tampering. Abide by your doctor’s instructions and do not attempt to remove the bandages unless he/she specifically instructs it. After your dressings are removed you will see an immediate difference in the protuberance of the ear.
What are the risks of otoplasty?
The risks of the operation are bleeding and infection. Both are exceedingly rare. With proper post-operative care this is a very safe and satisfying operation that carries very little risk, beautiful results, and almost no discomfort from the operation itself.
The patient should note that the ears can often feel numb for 2 to 3 months after the operation. The sensation returns slowly over that time. This is the reason that there is generally no pain in the post-operative period. This fact makes the operation exceptionally well tolerated in children.
Other questions?
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