What is Ear Surgery?

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, can correct a defect in the ear structure that is present at birth that becomes apparent with development or it can treat misshapen ears caused by injury, by improving the shape, position or proportion of the ear.

Ear surgery creates a natural shape, while bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face. Correction of even minor deformities can have profound benefits to appearance and self-esteem.

Ear surgery can treat:

• · Overly large ears — a rare condition called macrotia
• · Protruding ears occurring on one or both sides in varying degrees — not associated with hearing loss
• · Adult dissatisfaction with previous ear surgery

What you should know before undergoing ear surgery

Discomfort immediately following ear surgery is normal and can be controlled with pain medication. There may be an itchy feeling under bandages. It is essential that bandages remain intact and are not removed, for any reason. Failure to do so may result in loss of some of the correction and may require a secondary surgery.

Be prepared to discuss:

• · Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
• · Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
• · Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
• · Previous surgeries

Your surgeon may also:

• · Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• · Discuss the options available to you for ear surgery
• · Examine and measure different parts of your face
• · Take photographs for your medical record
• · Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
• · Discuss likely outcomes of ear surgery and any risks or potential complications

Important facts about the safety and risks of ear surgery

The decision to have ear surgery is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo, the alternatives and the most likely risks and potential complications.

Some of the risks include:

• · Bleeding (hematoma)
• · Blood clots
• · Asymmetry
• · Infection
• · Poor wound healing
• · Change in skin sensation
• · Skin contour irregularities
• · Skin discoloration/swelling
• · Anaesthesia risks
• · Unfavourable scarring
• · Allergies to tape, suture materials, glues, blood products, topical preparations or injected agents
• · Pain, which may persist
• · Possibility of revision surgery

Be sure to ask questions:

It’s very important to ask your plastic surgeon questions about your procedure. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.