AESTHETIC EAR SURGERY(OTOPLASTY)

WHAT IS THE AESTHETIC EAR SURGERY(OTOPLASTY)?

Prominent/Protruding ear surgery, large earlobe surgery, or the operations for other deformities in this area are very simple surgical procedures with quick recovery periods and great results that put a smile on the patient’s face.

WHO IS SUITABLE FOR THE AESTHETIC EAR SURGERY?

Aesthetic ear surgery can be performed from an early age. It is possible to successfully perform the surgery on 5 or 6 years old children in the preschool period.It is also a very easy condition to treat later during adulthood if the surgical intervention hasn’t been made during childhood.

How is the Prominent Ear Surgery Performed?

These surgical operations which typically take 1-1.5 hours are usually performed under general anesthesia. Before the surgery, the doctor will ask for some mandatory blood tests from the patient. The operation itself begins with an incision to remove the skin from the back of the ear. After the cartilage structure is revealed, the ear is reshaped by stitches. The surgery concludes after stitching up the skin, usually with dissolvable stitches. Therefore, there is no necessity to remove the stitches after the surgery, and the area is expected to fully recover after approximately 2 weeks. However, regular stitches might be used in some cases which may require removal after the surgery. 

What are the Risks Associated with the Aesthetic Ear Surgery?

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Asymmetric Ears

Bleeding is the most common complication that can occur. In the event of excessive bleeding, the blood might accumulate inside the ear. This complication is treated by draining the blood buildup. The second most common complication is infection. Since developing an infection might create the risk of disrupting the structure built during the surgery, the patient may need a second operation.  Problems related to the symmetry of the ears might arise. Because of this and the possible risks listed above, the operation must be performed by an experienced surgeon.

How is the Recovery Process? Things Patients Should and Shouldn’t Do After the Surgery

After the operation, the patients are usually discharged the same day. Pain and swelling are expected during the first couple of days after the surgery but these conditions improve over time. It is extremely important for the patient to regularly take the medicine prescribed by their doctors. The first 1.5 months after the surgery are very important for a successful recovery. The ear should not come in contact with water during the first 3 days after surgery. To prevent the ear from curling while sleeping, it is recommended to keep using the bandage applied by your doctor for 2 weeks after the operation. The patient needs to avoid activities that might bend or disturb the shape of the ear during the first 1.5 months period after the surgery. The ear is expected to reach its final shape 6 months after the operation.