This surgery can be done to correct the extreme asymmetries between the two ears if the patient is unsatisfied with the size and shape of their ears. The ear reduction and modification of prominent ears and earlobes are frequent procedures.
Protruding Ear Aesthetics
Large ears are frequently mischaracterized as protruding ears. In reality, protruding ears are caused by some sections of the ear being flat when they should be folded, which results in a larger-than-normal angle between the head and ears, making the ears excessively obvious when viewed from the front.
To stop abuse from classmates throughout the school years, it is advised to operate within the pre-school year. They therefore do not suffer from low self-esteem. Surgery can be done bilaterally or unilaterally.
Surgical Methods
Otoplasty can be used to restore missing folds, lower the size of big ears, or narrow the angle between the ears and the skull. The average age for this surgery is 6 years old and up. To remove cartilage, the ear is opened from the back, and a fold is made towards the back using specific sutures. The absence of the ear fold or the presence of only the ear lobes is a condition known as microtia. In these situations, ear reconstruction is done. Generally, this entails utilizing the patient’s own tissues, and occasionally, prosthetic devices are used in addition to this.
Type of Anaesthesia and Length of Procedure
Young patients usually require a general anesthetic. For adult individuals, a local anesthetic and sedative are usually selected.
The process takes between 30 minutes to an hour, while more difficult procedures could take longer. Usually, a tiny incision is made at the back of the ear to provide access to the cartilage, which is then either sliced into smaller pieces and removed or softly filed to give the ear its proper shape.
Recovery Period
After the procedure, the patient’s head will be bandaged to let the ears adjust to their new form and heal. After 2-4 days, this bandaging is taken off, and a new, lighter bandage is applied to the head. It is advised to wear a headband when sleeping once this is removed as well. Additionally, wearing this headband all day will assist in better protecting your ears.
For 1.5 months following the operation, avoid engaging in any activity that might result in your ears bending. About 10 days following surgery, the majority of older patients may resume their jobs. About a week later, kids can go back to school, but they should be cautious when doing their regular schoolwork.