Otoplasty, commonly called ear surgery, is a fairly common type of cosmetic surgery which can be performed on children and adults both. During the procedure the Sydney plastic surgeon will alter the shape, change the position, or adjust the proportion of your ears. If your ears affect how you feel about your appearance or your level of self esteem then you may want to consider otoplasty.
Why is Ear Surgery Performed?
There are a number of reasons why ear surgery may be performed. If you were born with a structural defect in one or both ears and this defect becomes more apparent as you developed then otoplasty may be an option to correct this issue. If you have suffered an injury to one or both ears that caused them to become misshapen then a Sydney plastic surgery can help. You may also be considering ear surgery because you feel that your ears are too large, protruding, or out of proportion with the rest of your face and head.
What Happens During Otoplasty?
The exact surgical technique used to perform ear surgery can vary, depending on the condition being treated and the desired results that you want. This operation is usually performed in an outpatient surgery center or clinic and does not usually require an overnight stay in a hospital. One exception is children, who are typically kept in the hospital for monitoring and pain management after the procedure.
In most otoplasty cases the Sydney plastic surgeon will make a small incision behind the ear after you have received anesthesia, revealing the ear cartilage. Any excess tissue, such as skin and cartilage, will be removed through this incision. The ear is then pinned back using sutures, and the original incision will be stitched shut using sutures that dissolve and do not need to be removed. Bandages are placed around your head so that your ears are covered once the procedure is finished. During the initial consultation you will be cautioned to avoid aspirin and certan other drugs for up to a month before yoru procedure is scheduled.
How Long Does Ear Surgery Usually Take?
The type of otoplasty that is being performed will determine the exact time required to perform the procedure. If you are having any other type of procedure this can also change the time needed. The Sydney plastic surgeon that you have chosen will explain how long your surgery is expected to take based on what will be done. Usually it takes 45 minutes to an hour for each ear but some procedures may take several hours if there is extensive work being done.
Otoplasty Recovery
Recovery from ear surgery does take some time. You will normally be given antibiotics to prevent any infection, and a pain medication is usually prescribed as well to keep you comfortable. You will need to wear a headband while you sleep for the first 4-6 weeks, and for 2 weeks after the procedure you will be cautioned not to lift more than 10 pounds. You must keep the ear dry for at least one week. It may take up to 6 weeks or even longer for all of the swelling to go away but you may notice a difference in your appearance as soon as the bandages are removed.
To find out more about this or our other cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures, please contact Pure Aesthetics on 02 9252 9262.
