The most frequently performed ear surgery is the one used to correct "protruding ears". It's an operation frequently requested by adolescents and even children, due to the psychological and social problems that this deformity entails. Depending on the age of the patient to be treated, the operation can be performed under general or local anaesthesia. The incision is usually made behind the ear, leaving a virtually invisible scar. From this incision, the ear cartilage is reshaped, making it fold in the appropriate places and removing an ellipse of skin, which is sutured. A bandage is applied to shape the ears so that they heal in the correct position. Once removed (after one week) the stitches are removed and an elastic bandage is placed for two weeks to prevent the ears from folding forward during sleep. The result of the operation is permanent. Retouching is rarely necessary and complications, whether skin or cartilage, are rare.
In addition to protruding ears, there are other problems that can also be solved with surgery. These include the contracted ear and the cupped ear. Elongated earlobes and slanted earlobes can also be surgically improved. The plastic surgeon is also able to create a new ear when one is born without one (microtia) or when one is lost due to trauma.
An otoplasty usually takes between 2 and 3 hours, although in complex cases it may take longer. The technique used will depend on the specific problem. Generally, a small incision is made in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage is then sculpted and folded back; internal stitches may be used to maintain the new shape. Occasionally, it may be necessary to remove some of the cartilage to obtain a more natural ear. Finally, a wedge of skin is removed from the back of the ear. The resulting otoplasty scar is hidden behind the ear. Most of the time, even if only one ear appears abnormal, both ears are operated on to achieve better symmetry.
Most patients, children and adults, are well within a few hours of surgery, although it may be advisable to stay overnight in the clinic until the effects of the general anaesthesia wear off. A bandage is placed around the head immediately after surgery. The ears may be a little sore for the first few days, but this is easily relieved with medication. Within a few days, the bandage is changed to a lighter headband-like dressing. It is important to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions regarding the use of the bandage, especially at night. Any activity in which the ears may bend should be avoided for the first month.
Please ask for a consultation with our surgeon to get a quote. The consultation costs 60€, which will be deducted from the total amount if the procedure is performed.
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