Which is the appropriate age for otoplasty?
Ear cartilage is considered to reach full maturity at the age of five to six years. This coincides with the end of kindergarten and the beginning of the first school year. Performing surgery at this age helps to avoid the mental injury of a child from unpleasant teasing that will inevitably face in the school environment due to the appearance of his ears. There is no upper age limit.
What problems does otoplasty have to face?
Common problems are the lack folding of the helix or antihelix , excessive curvature of the inferior crus or the concha (all of which contribute to increased angle and the creation of prominent ears), very large ears, extremely large lobules or low adhesion to the skull. It is also used to repair congenital ear abnormalities such as microtia or anotia, but also for recovery after traumatic injuries or after partial or total resections of the auricle due to malignant lesions.
How is Otoplasty being performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in young children, while in adolescents and adults, the procedure can also be performed with local anesthesia. There are various surgical techniques, depending on the problem, all of which include cartilage carving and stitching.
What precedes the surgery?
During the preoperative examination in the office, a complete history is obtained, the technique to be used is analyzed, the surgical outcome is photographed and simulated on the computer.
How long does the surgery last? After that, do we need hospitalization?
The procedure lasts about one and a half hour for both ears. No overnight stay is required. We can return home a few hours after surgery.
How will I be after leaving the clinic?
At the end of the surgery, a rubber bandage will be around our ears for about three to seven days. Its mission is to exert moderate pressure on the surgical area to prevent hematomas from being created under our skin. It is easily and painlessly removed, so the stitches do. After removal, it is recommended to wear an elastic sports bandage around our ears during sleep time for about two to three weeks.
Is there any pain after surgery?
The pain is usually very mild and tolerable and is easily controlled with common painkillers, that we consume within the first two to three days. If severe pain occurs then we should contact our doctor to reduce the pressure on the bandage.
For how long should we be absent from our activities?
Time off depends on the type of activity. Returning to office work can be done almost immediately. Returning to heavier jobs, as the return of children to school, usually takes about 10 days.