Otoplasty

Otoplasty is the operation in which we correct malformations of the pinna of the ear. Usually, correction is indicated for patients with lopsided ears, i.e. a flap projection greater than 1.8cm from the skull, and patients with large ear flaps or uneven flaps.The purpose of the surgery is to harmonize the image of the ear wings with the image of the rest of the head.

WHAT CAN HAPPEN?

Depending on the needs, the wing can be fixed, reduced or a combination of the two. Preoperative examination and proper planning are of great importance.

In fixing the wing, the incision is made in the skin of the back surface of the ear and from this point the cartilages are shaped in their new position. The permanence of the result is achieved by using permanent special sutures and by removing the excess skin on the back surface of the ear. The wound is closed with non-absorbable sutures which are removed on the 7th day. There is mild pain, swelling and minor bruising (bruising), which subsides in the first week.

In reducing the length of the flap the incision extends to the anterior surface of the ear. Mainly the length of the helix and anthelix is reduced. The earlobe may also need reduction or correction. The wound is closed with non-absorbable sutures which are removed in 5-6 days. As in the correction of absenteeism, there is mild discomfort, swelling and small bruising (bruises), which subside in the 1st week.

WHO IS OTOPLASTY FOR?

Otoplasty is aimed at healthy children, teenagers and adults. Depending on the age and the problem, the operation is performed either with general or local anesthesia, in the clinic or in the doctor's office.

However, surgery is indicated for all patients in whom the clinical examination confirms the disproportion of the wings in relation to the rest of the head, and who want to obtain an overall more harmonious face.

WHAT IS THE TYPE OF ANESTHESIA FOR OTOPLASTY?

Otoplasty is performed under local anesthesia (with or without sedation) or general anesthesia. The duration of the operation is approximately two hours.

WHAT WILL THE SCARS BE LIKE AFTER OTOPLASTY?

In standard otoplasty the incisions are made on the natural fold on the back surface of the pinna and after a few months are hardly detectable.

WHAT WILL BE THE DURATION OF THE RESULTS?

At the end of the surgery we induce overcorrection. The wing cartilages have "memory" and tend to return to their previous position. We expect the result to stabilize in the first weeks after the surgery. After this time, the effect is permanent.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS FROM OTOPLASTY?

The doctor will evaluate your general condition and your history and, if he decides that you are suitable for surgery, he will inform you about the possible complications and what needs to be done to reduce the possibility of their occurrence. You will also be asked to stop smoking and refrain from using supplements that affect blood clotting. The anesthesiologist will then talk to you about the type of anesthesia you will receive and the possible complications.

It is very important that the patient follows the pre-operative and post-operative instructions and informs his doctor about everything that concerns him.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO BEFORE THE OPERATION?

Depending on your age, you will be given instructions on the medications you may be taking and what you should take next, as well as the additional testing you may need to do based on your history. In case there is a significant otological history, you will need to be examined by an ophthalmologist.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO AFTER THE OPERATION?

When you leave the surgery you will wear a special pressure band and you will have a feeling of tension in the ears from the developing swelling. The use of painkillers and antibiotics is recommended.

You stay in the clinic for a few hours and your time off work due to bandaging and discomfort must have been calculated at 1 week. This does not mean that you will not be able to do light work much sooner, but in general you will be careful because the swelling and ecchymosis can easily worsen. You should avoid bending over, intense physical fatigue and exposure to the sun. After the stitches are removed you will be given instructions for the scar, which is easily hidden and disappears within the next few months.

WHAT IS THE COST OF THE OPERATION?

The cost of otoplasty is calculated by adding the cost of the clinic, in which the patient is operated and treated, the fee of the Plastic Surgeon and the Anesthesiologist.