Cosmetic surgery to correct protruding ears, bringing the ears closer to the head and reshaping them. Indicated for children from 6 years of age and adults.
It can be performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation.
Otoplasty
What does otoplasty consist of?
In the surgery, in addition to bringing the ears closer to the head, maneuvers are performed to reshape protruding ears, since they generally do not have all the curves of an ear considered anatomically correct.
Who is otoplasty indicated for?
Patients who have protruding ears, also called prominent ears, and who are dissatisfied with this. Ears are considered protruding when they form an angle greater than 30 degrees with the head or are more than 2 cm away from it. In practice, otoplasty is essentially a cosmetic surgery and, therefore, should be a patient's own desire to modify their ears.
From what age can surgery be performed?
Otoplasty can be performed on children from 6 years of age and on adults. It's important to remember that bullying due to protruding ears becomes more frequent in preschool and is therefore socially and psychologically detrimental to the patient. Therefore, post-operative satisfaction is usually high in school-aged children and adolescents. However, adults who did not have the opportunity to undergo surgery in childhood can also have the procedure without compromising results.
What is the hospitalization process like for the procedure?
Hospitalization is usually on a "day clinic" basis, where the patient is admitted for surgery and can be discharged on the same day.
What type of anesthesia is used for otoplasty?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation. Very young children or highly anxious individuals are sedated only to ensure the procedure is performed accurately and without interference that could affect the outcome.
What is the post-operative period like after otoplasty?
In the postoperative period, the patient will have a bandage on for approximately 48-72 hours. After that, they will wear a headband ("ballerina headband" or "tennis headband") during the day for about 15 days and at night for 30 days. Sleeping with the head on its side should be avoided for about 10 days. Pain complaints vary greatly from patient to patient. Stronger analgesics are prescribed for control, if necessary.
How long does post-operative recovery take?
Post-operative recovery takes approximately 5 to 10 days, depending on the patient's clinical status and post-operative healing.
How soon can one return to practicing sports?
After otoplasty, you can return to sports in about 30 days. Impact sports, such as martial arts, which involve a risk of direct impact to the ear, should be avoided for a longer period of time.
What do the scars look like after otoplasty?
In otoplasty, an incision is made behind the ear, which is usually imperceptible due to its "hidden" location and the small thickness of the scar. Patients with a tendency to form keloids (bulky scars) should inform the surgeon beforehand to reduce the chances of this occurring.
Will the ear be "stuck together" after surgery?
In the initial postoperative phase, the ear remains very close to the head, partly due to the constant pressure from the bandage. After about 3 to 6 months, it assumes a more natural position, showing no evidence that surgery was performed.