Auriculoplasty
Auriculoplasty or ear correction models the shape, size and angle of the ears. It is performed through small incisions in the back of the ear to match or reshape the cartilage , which is why there are generally no apparent scars. Through this same incision we can reposition the cartilage, recreate missing folds and remove skin if necessary. This technique can be performed on children from the age of six and on adults.
Auriculoplasty
FAQ
Am I a good candidate?It is important to keep in mind that the patient achieves an improvement in the appearance of their ears, not absolute perfection. Children and adults should not expect absolute symmetry, which would even be unnatural. The results are generally very satisfactory.
In a first consultation with the professional, the problem will be evaluated and the best technique for each case will be recommended. In addition, the patient will receive the necessary instructions to prepare for the operation.
In a first consultation with the professional, the problem will be evaluated and the best technique for each case will be recommended. In addition, the patient will receive the necessary instructions to prepare for the operation.
Where is it done?The surgery must be performed in the operating room, in a hospital or clinic. Depending on the type of anesthesia, the operation will have an outpatient regimen or you will spend a night in the hospital in some very complex cases.
What kind of anesthesia is used?General anesthesia is recommended in young children. For older children and adults, local anesthesia is used, which may also be associated with sedation. In this case, the patient will be relaxed during the operation although awake.
How is the surgery?This operation takes approximately one to two hours. In complex cases it may require more time. Depending on the problem, a different technique will be used. A short incision is usually made in the back of the ear, exposing the ear cartilage. It is then sculpted and folded back. Internal points are sometimes used to define a new shape.
Sometimes it may be necessary to remove a part of the cartilage, in case the patient wants to reduce the size of the pinna.
Finally, a wedge of skin is removed from the back of the ear. It should be noted that the scar is hidden behind the ear. In almost all otoplasties , both ears are intervened to achieve symmetry.
How is the postoperative?Both children and adults are well a few hours after the operation. Once finished, a bandage is placed around the head. It is possible to feel some pain in the ears during the first few days, although the discomfort is relieved with medication.
After one to two days the bandage is changed, for one that looks like a headband. It is essential to follow the recommendations regarding the use of these bandages, mainly during sleeping hours. During the first month, avoid bending the ears.
Adults can return to their usual duties five days after the operation. Children can return to school after a week, avoiding physical activity.
The stitches are removed between 5-7 days.
Physical activity: it can be resumed four weeks after the operation.
After one to two days the bandage is changed, for one that looks like a headband. It is essential to follow the recommendations regarding the use of these bandages, mainly during sleeping hours. During the first month, avoid bending the ears.
Adults can return to their usual duties five days after the operation. Children can return to school after a week, avoiding physical activity.
The stitches are removed between 5-7 days.
Physical activity: it can be resumed four weeks after the operation.
Other problems that an otoplasty solvesIn addition to very prominent or “loop” ears, this treatment can correct other ear problems. For example, the cupped ear and the contracted ear. It also serves to correct torn or elongated earlobes. A plastic surgeon can also create a new ear in cases of microtia (when you are born without an ear) or when it is lost due to trauma.
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