Otoplasty (Ear Repair)
Need to know: An ear repair normally takes between two and three hours. The technique to be used will depend on each individual case. In most cases, although only one ear seems abnormal, both ears are operated on to achieve a better symmetry. The incision is normally performed behind the ear, so that the scar is practically invisible. From this incision, the cartilage of the ear is sculpted, making it bend towards the proper positions and removing part of the skin, which is sutured.
A local anesthesia related or not to sedation will be used. A bandage is used to promote the best molding of ears so that they heal in an adequate position. One week later, we will have the bandage and the stitches out. Then an elastic band is worn during two weeks in order to avoid that the ears bend forwards while you are sleeping.
Make up: This surgery changes the position of prominent ears, or ears which stick out, to a more normal position, closer to the head. It is also used to reduce the size of big ears.
Profile: This surgery is addressed to every person, either adults or children, who have problems with their ears because they stick out or are too prominent. The reason can be just aesthetic; sometimes, it is related to a psychological problem since our patients cannot develop a normal life because of their ears.
Frecuently Asked Questions about "Otoplasty (Ear Repair)"- Will my ears be too close to my head?
- At the beginning, you will see them closer to the head than they will finally be. This is completely normal, since we have to wear a bandage to make the cartilage and rest of structures stick to the skin. When times goes by, they take their final form.
- Can I have the bandage out?
- During the first week, the bandage must be worn night and day. After ten days, it can be removed for short periods of time but we recommend wearing it always, especially, when you sleep as we can sleep in awkward positions without noticing.
- Are stitches visible?
- The sutures are made as thin as possible going round the edge of the fold in the back of the ear, so that they are almost inconspicuous.
- Can I have only one ear operated on?
- It is always recommended to operate both in order to achieve a better symmetry.
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