OTOPLASTY:

This operation is usually performed to correct “sticky out ears”. This situation, although part of the range of normal appearance can cause significant embarrassment and concern with those patients. There are a variety of shapes with which patients present and so naturally there are a variety of surgical options.

Generally the scars are located behind the ears so that they are inconspicuous, but sometimes there needs to be a scar on the front aspect of the ear to achieve the desired result. The procedures may require surgery on the actual cartilage of the ear and this is not uncommonly painful in the recovery phase.

In the initial consultation Dr. Flynn will evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective technique, you should discuss your expectations frankly with the doctor during this consultation.  Your expectations must be realistic and you must keep in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection. It is important to realise also that sometimes despite the best endeavours, the result is not exactly what you are looking for. Sometimes this can be corrected with further surgery but also sometimes it may not be possible to achieve what you hope for.

The surgery usually takes about one to two hours and is performed as a day procedure and may be carried out under local anaesthesia or a light sedation.   The operative technique will depend on your physical features however, with one of the most common techniques  a small incision is made in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage.  The cartilage is then sculpted to create a more pronounced fold in the central portion of the ear.   Non removable stitches may be used to help maintain a new shape.

Immediately following surgery a bandage will be applied and left in place for a couple of days.  After the bandage is removed this will be replaced with a lighter headband.  Most patients are able to return to work within a few days. 

Do not expect both ears to match perfectly, perfect symmetry is unrealistic and unnatural in ears.  If you have discussed the procedure and your expectations openly with the doctor prior to your operation, then you will most likely be pleased with the result. 

Does it hurt?
You are likely to be uncomfortable for several days to a week.  Any post-operative pain is usually easily controlled with medication and this is also organized for when you go home.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS:

As with any surgical procedure there are risks, limitations and potential complications. Any surgery carries risks, which include infection and post-operative blood clots. 

Bruising is common and resolves well, usually in a matter of days. Bleeding at the time of operation is well controlled but sometimes bleeding occurs after the operation and may collect as a haematoma. If a haematoma is large enough it may need to be drained.

Poor wound healing and scars that are too obvious are troublesome but uncommon. There are treatments available to help to manage these problems. Sometimes there is altered sensation or numbness over part of the ear or adjacent tissue. Most commonly this will resolve with time but it may not.

Major complications such as injury to nerves may cause abnormal movement patterns which may not be able to be corrected. This is extremely uncommon but has been reported.

Infection is uncommon but if it occurs it can be serious and so it needs to be treated seriously. All patients are treated with antibiotics to try to prevent infection. Severe infections may cause skin necrosis and loss of tissue which will need to be repaired.

As with any procedure you need to be as fully informed as possible so that you can make an informed decision.

For more information on Otoplasty please call and talk to our friendly staff on 1300 881388