Face > Otoplastía

Otoplasty

What is an Otoplasty?

Also known as ear surgery or auriculoplasty, an Otoplasty is a surgical procedure commonly used to:

  • Correct overly projecting ears

  • Correct ears with some type of malformation.

More commonly used to correct prominent ears. This surgery can be performed from the age of 5, it is a simple procedure with very natural results, which can improve the appearance of the face and self-esteem.

A patient may consider otoplasty in the following situations:

  • The ears or one of them extends too far from the patient’s head.
  • Patient is dissatisfied with previous ear surgery.

Otoplasty is usually performed on both ears to optimize symmetry. Patients are eligible for the procedure once the ear reaches its full size (usually after 5 years of age). This surgery does not change the position of the ear nor the capacity to change hearing. The procedure improves the ear’s physical appearance, it is very simple and safe as it can be done with local anestesia, and discomfort is minimal.

What is the normal size of an ear?

The size of the ears depends on the age, sex, and size of the person, and especially the size of the head. Its size is usually between 5.5 and 6.5 cm high and 3 to 4.5 cm wide and should correspond to the height of the nose. There is often a slight asymmetry in size and position.

Can the procedure interfere with other functions of the ear?

It does not interfere, they are independent.

Is the operation to correct prominent ears complicated?

Otoplasty is relatively simple, and very natural-looking results can be achieved.
An incision is made behind the ear to remove excess cartilage. The remaining cartilage is sutured restoring the ideal shape by placing it in a posterior location. Also, when there is a lack of definition of the structures of the ear, it is sutured to improve its shape and give it more definition.

Does it leave scars?

Yes, they are hidden in the posterior region of the ear. Sometimes large lobes can be reduced, leaving an inconspicuous scar in front of the lobe.

What is the best age for Otoplasty?

Any age after the 5 years of age..

In children, the most advisable age for any operation on the ears is between 5 and 6 years, which means that they have practically reached their size. In adults any age is good.

Otoplasty in children

Otoplasty in minors is common and can be performed in the company of their parents or guardians. Although the evaluation should be individual, in many cases it may be appropriate to perform surgery if the child shows problems with classmates at school. Surgery is indicated when the child requests a solution to his/her problem.

If you think that your son/daughter may be a candidate for ear surgery, please contact us to clarify your doubts.

What type of anesthesia is recommended?
What are the risks?

The anesthesia is local, with or without sedation, it is ambulatory (does not require hospitalization) and the risk is minimal. In children under 10 years of age, general anesthesia may be required.

Can you see the results immediately?

You can see results immediately after the surgery, although swelling is normal in the first few weeks. Once the bandages are removed, you can get an idea of your results.

What are the complications?

Complications are very rare, but there could be a bruise a day after surgery, infection (preventable with antibiotics), scarring problems, or some degree of recurrence.

Postoperative indications

We place a bandage on the head, the bandage is used for the first few days and it can be an elastic bandage or headband that only covers the ears. The bandage is removed during the bath and must be used for a total of 10 days, 5 days during day and night and 5 days at night.

RECOVERY

The following approximate times are recommended:

  • Time to return to your office/work: 24 hours later with an ear bandage which can look natural as a hair bandage, use 5 days day and night and 5 days night.
  • Time to return to swimming: 3-4 weeks later
  • Time to return to light exercise: 3-4 weeks later
  • Time to return to intense exercise: 4-5 weeks later
  • The patient should sleep with their head up for around 7-10 days.

Dr. Raúl López | Diseñado por