An otoplasty procedure, otherwise known as ear pinning surgery, is a cosmetic surgery aimed to alter the shape and position of prominent ears. It can be performed any time after one’s ears have reached their full size, typically from age five through adulthood.
Why Might You Consider Otoplasty?
You might be a good candidate for an otoplasty: if your outer ears stick out significantly from your head; if your ears are misshapen; or if you are dissatisfied with a previous ear reshaping surgery.
What to Expect with Otoplasty?
Before Surgery
Your surgeon will discuss the surgical technique and the potential risks, which include the risk of infection, recurrence, and dehiscence (wound opening).
During Surgery
Otoplasty may be performed with sedation or local anesthesia alone.
The techniques employed will vary according to the type of correction required. The specific technique chosen will determine the location of the incisions and resulting scars. Typically, the scars will be hidden behind your ear and will not be visible from the front.
After the incisions are made, excess skin may be removed. The cartilage will then be reshaped into the proper position, and secured with internal stitches. Incisions will be closed with additional stitches. The procedure is typically completed within an hour.
After Surgery
After otoplasty, your ears will be covered in a head dressing for protection and support, likely resulting in minor discomfort and itching. This discomfort can be alleviated by taking pain medication, which your doctor can prescribe.
In order to refrain from putting pressure on your ears, it is necessary to avoid sleeping on your side. It is also vital to avoid rubbing or placing excessive force on the incisions.
After a few days have elapsed, your doctor will remove your bandages. An immediate noticeable change in the appearance of the ears will be apparent, upon removing the bandages. It may be recommended to wear a loose headband for a few weeks, particularly at night. This prevents patients from pulling on their ears when rolling over in bed.
What to do After Otoplasty
Elevate your Head
Your head will need to be elevated for several weeks after surgery (sleeping on several pillows). This will help alleviate pain. Keep comfortable pillows around at all times to support your head while resting.
Ensure your Medication is Taken as Directed
To reduce pain and discomfort after your plastic surgery, ensure you take prescribed medication, precisely as directed.
Eat Healthily
Maintaining a healthy diet will allow for faster and more effective recovery after otoplasty, as your body requires vital nutrients and vitamins to heal optimally.
Wear Clothing that can be Easily Removed
To avoid having your clothing make contact with your ears, such as when pulling a shirt over your head, opt for easily-removable clothing instead. By wearing shirts with buttons or a zipper, for example, you can avoid the potential damage to your ears that pulling a shirt over your head might produce.
Wear Dressings and Headbands as Recommended
Removing or shifting dressings and headbands can undermine the recovery process, as they are designed to keep your newly positioned ears in place after surgery. It is, therefore, crucial to wear your dressings and headbands, exactly as instructed.
Avoid Certain Habits
It is vital that you avoid certain habits after otoplasty surgery. Do not touch or rub your ears as even light contact can result in discomfort, pain, or irritation.
Secondly, avoid smoking as it can delay the recovery process and increase the risk of certain complications.
Thirdly, avoid strenuous exercise for as long as your doctor recommends in order to allow your body to fully recover after surgery.
Conclusion
Otoplasty is a common procedure for correcting or enhancing the appearance of your ears. Before opting for the procedure, please consider all the factors presented in this article. As soon as you feel ready to proceed, contact our Montreal office for an otoplasty surgery in Montreal.