This
is a procedure done for protruding or over-developed
ears. Otoplasty is commonly referred to as “pinning
back” of the ears and is done in children once
their ears have stopped developing, around the
age of six and also in adults. Over-developed
ears can be the cause of psychological stress
and trauma and should be treated at a young
age before it becomes a serious issue.
Before
surgery
To
better understand your overall health, we will
evaluate your medical history prior to surgery.
In addition, a complete examination of your
ears is made in order to take the most effective
surgical approach. All issues such as shape
and types of anesthesia used will be discussed.
We
will provide you with pre-operative instructions
that may include the elimination of specific
drugs containing aspirin several weeks before
surgery to minimize excess bleeding. Antibiotics
may also be prescribed to prevent infection.
The
areas that will be excised are marked and digital
photographs are taken in order to document the
amount of improvement after surgery.
The
Procedure
The
procedure can be performed under IV sedation
or general anesthesia and the doctor will discuss
this option with you. We can either fold the
cartilage located on the back of the ear or
remove the excess cartilage which differs from
case to case. Sutures are placed and bandages
applied to speed the healing process. The procedure
typically takes only a few hours
Post-Operative
Information
After
the operation patients should expect bruising
around the area that fades in 2-3 weeks. Pain
associated with operation is minimal and can
be easily treated with oral medication. The
bandages are only needed for a few days and
should be replaced with a lighter dressing.
Refraining from sleeping on the ears is required
and patients are advised to use a very soft
pillow. Showering shampoo may begin after a
few days. Expect two to three days of recovery
before normal activities can be performed.
Aftercare
Wound
Care - Incisions may be cleaned with dilute
peroxide and coated with bactroban cream as
needed.
Activity
– Increase activity as tolerated with no heavy
exercise for two weeks.
Special Instructions – After dressing is removed,
wear support band at least half time for three
to six weeks. The more it can be worn the first
week, the better.
Signs
of Hematoma – Painful extreme hardness or bleeding
often accompanied by bruising, usually unilateral
causing asymmetry.