Otoplasty is a popular procedure that aims to address ear conditions and reshape the ears for a more even, natural, proportionate look. The procedure may be performed on one or both ears depending on the patient’s concerns. Otoplasty generally is a term for surgical correction of the projecting or prominent ears that are significant congenital ear deformities, which vary in severity and cause.
What Are The Conditions That Otoplasty Address?
Otoplasty has successfully corrected many ear conditions, such as birth defects, injuries, and other related conditions. Below are the common conditions that this procedure can correct.
- Cleft earlobe. One common reason why surgical OtoplastyOtoplasty has been a sought-after procedure is due to the cleft earlobe. This ear condition is characterized by an open notch at the top of the earlobe, usually caused by a growth deformity. While it rarely risks a person’s health or well-being, it can affect their quality of life and appearance.
- Constricted ear. The case of the constricted ear is when the helix’s shank protrudes out of the concha and into the helical rim. In fact, it can shift the cartilage of the ear around depending on the severity of this condition. In this case, surgical OtoplastyOtoplasty is used to correct issues of the constricted ear, both minor and severe.
- Cryptotia. This occurs when the helix’s rim remains hidden under the skin within the temporal region (scalp). To correct this ear condition, the plastic surgeon will perform a small incision to expose the ear’s upper portion, followed by resurfacing the cartilage in the helical rim (usually done with a skin graft or flap). Also, the upper ear cartilage may require surgical correction in some cases of cryptotia.
- Scroll ear. A birth defect in which the ear’s outer portion curls inwards towards the person’s head. In this case, plastic OtoplastyOtoplasty is highly effective in treating scroll ears by pulling the displaced cartilage back into its original position.
- Darwinian ear. It is derived from the British biologist, and the Darwinian ear occurs when the cartilage at the conchal bowl remains flat. Typically, it folds inwards, but defects and injuries may cause it to stay flat, thus, resulting in the condition known as the Darwinian ear.
- Skin cancer. Nearly one in five Americans are estimated to develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. Although it’s been known that skin cancer only develops directly in the body, the fact remains that it can also form in the ear. Most often, surgical OtoplastyOtoplasty can be used to treat cases of cancerous cells forming on the ear by removing affected cartilage and grafting it with additional tissue if necessary.
- Lop ear. A condition characterized by an abnormally small helix and a large ear opening, which creates the appearance of a cup-shaped ear. While otoplasty procedures vary on a case-by-case basis, most involve enlarging the helix while moving it closer to the individual’s head.
What To Expect From The Otoplasty Procedure?
Before The Procedure
Foremost, OtoplastyOtoplasty can be done in a hospital or an outpatient surgical facility. The procedure is sometimes performed with sedation and local anesthesia, which numbs only part of the body. However, general anesthesia must be needed in other cases, which renders patients unconscious and may be given prior to the procedure.
During The Procedure
It is important to note that otoplasty procedures vary based on what kind of correction is needed. Still, the specific method the plastic surgeon chooses will depend on the resulting scars and the location of the incisions, such as on the back of the ears or within the inner creases of the ears.
Once the incision is done, the doctor might remove excess cartilage and skin. Next, the plastic surgeon will fold the cartilage into the proper position and close it with internal stitches. Also, additional stitches will be used to close the incisions, and the entire procedure usually takes about two hours.
After The Procedure
Once the OtoplastyOtoplasty is done, the ears will be covered in bandages for protection and support. Some discomfort and itching might be experienced following the procedure. In this case, taking pain medication recommended by a doctor is suggested.
To keep pressure off the ears:
- Avoid sleeping on the side
- Do not rub or exert force on the incisions
- Try wearing button-down shirts or shirts with loose-fitting collars
A few days after OtoplastyOtoplasty, the doctor will remove the bandages, and the ears may likely be swollen and red. It is suggested to wear a loose headband covering the ears at night for a few weeks since this will keep the ears from pulling forward when rolling over in bed. Nonetheless, it is best to ask the doctor when it’s fine to resume daily activities, such as bathing and physical activity.
Who Should Receive The Otoplasty Procedure?
It is for anyone concerned about the size, shape, appearance, symmetry, or another feature of their ears. In fact, below are the most common reasons for OtoplastyOtoplasty include:
- One ear sticks out
- Both ears stick out
- Prominent ears
- The ears are too large
- The ears are too small
- Misshapen ears
- Asymmetric ears
- Ears do not “fit” the head/face
Additionally, patients considering ear pinning or OtoplastyOtoplasty should be in good health, nonsmoking, and at least 5 – 6 years of age.
What Are The Possible Risks Of Otoplasty?
Like any major surgery, OtoplastyOtoplasty has possible side effects, including infection, bleeding risk, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. Aside from that, other risks associated with the procedure include:
- Scarring
- Asymmetry in-ear placement
- Changes in skin sensation
- Allergic reaction
- Problems with stitches
- Overcorrection
The Bottom Line
For those who are thinking about surgery to provide a more symmetrical and cosmetically appealing appearance to the ears, OtoplastyOtoplasty is a great way to reshape part of the cartilage in the ears and other conditions. The Cache Valley Ear, Nose & Throat team diagnoses and treats a comprehensive range of ear-related issues with the help of Otoplasty Otoplasty. Ultimately, they act towards recovery for patients of all ages suffering from hearing loss, chronic infections, and ear noise.
