Otoplasty is a procedure that refers to surgical changes in the shape and position of the ear. It is recommended as early as 4-5 years of age and especially to those kids to which the after birth ear splinting was not effective or wasn’t at all applied. The procedure can correct unilateral asymmetry but most of the times we operate both ears so as to give them their proper position. During consultation, patient is being assessed and the exact encountered problem in combination to which part of the ear is harmed are identified. Afterwards, expectations and potential results are discussed with the patient and/or parents/guardians while finally procedure is described.
Procedure
It is performed usually under local anesthesia and lasts about two hours. Incisions in standard otoplasty are placed behind the ear where they are hidden. No skin is excised except a small triangle from the posterior surface of the ear lobe when needed so as to achieve best results. Dissection is performed and proper sutures are placed to the cartilages in a way to overcorrect the ear repositioning as skin laxity over time will permit best results. After the procedure a bandage is placed for 3 to 5 days so as to protect and support the ears. After that, a special headband is held for 4 to 6 weeks during sleep. The result is permanent.
