| Ear plastic
surgery (Otoplasty)
The ear can sometimes carry the family stigma as when they are
sticking out. The ideal age to correct this problem is between 5
and 7 years old when the ear is completely formed and almost in
the final size as an adult and also because this is a pre-primary
school period which is precisely when children start to become more
self-conscious of this problem. Having the surgery at a young age
has two benefits: the cartilage is more pliable, making it easier
to reshape, and the child will experience the psychological benefits
of the cosmetic improvement. However, a patient may have the surgery
at any age.
These are the most frequently asked questions about this surgery:
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1) Does the correction of sticking out ears leave scars?
The scar is practically invisible since it’s behind the ear and
the skin in this area is very thin making the scar almost imperceptible.
2) What kind of anesthetic is used?
Children - general and adults usually local.
3) How long should I stay in hospital?
General anesthetic – 24 hours
Local – 6 to 8 hours
4) How long is the surgery?
90 minutes (bilateral) or 60 minutes (unilateral).
5) Is the post-surgery period painful?
Usually there is no pain and no more risks than traveling by plane, driving
or even crossing a street. In case of pain, it’s mild and can be
overcome with painkillers.
6) What kind of bandages will I use?
Small bandages are used and the ears (specially with children) are protected
with a cap to prevent traumas in the area.
7) When are the stitches removed? Is it painful?
Around the 8th day, it’s not painful.
8) When will I get the final result?
When the bandages are removed you’ll get 80% of the result and the
rest after the 12th week.
9) Is there a chance that the problem may come back after surgery?
The result is definite when the surgery is done correctly. A slight asymmetry
is normal for even people who haven’t been operated on have a slight
asymmetry.
Recommendations for the ear plastic surgery
Pre-surgery
1. Inform us of any colds, infections and changes in health in the day
before surgery
2. follow check in time
3. in case of general anesthetic don’t eat or drink 8 to 12 hours
prior to surgery.
4. wash hair one day before surgery.
5. if you have long hair, don’t cut it for it helps to disguise
the scars after surgery.
Post-surgery
1. avoid sun, cold and traumas for 10 days
2. come to the clinic at the appointed time to control recovery
3. follow doctor’s prescriptions
4. normal school and professional activites after 4 or 5 th day
5. normal diet
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