|
Ear surgery
usually takes about one to two hours, although complicated procedures
may take longer. With one of the more common techniques, the surgeon
makes a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear
cartilage. He will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back
toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain
the new shape. Occasionally, the surgeon will remove a larger
piece of cartilage to provide a more natural-looking fold when
the surgery is complete. Another technique involves a similar
incision in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches
are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear
without removing cartilage. In most cases, ear surgery will leave
a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time.
Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually
performed on both ears for a better balance.
Are
you a good candidate?
- If you
have ears that stick out too far from the sides of the head.
- If your
ears have an unusual or undesirable shape.
Intended
Results
- Ears that
have normal folds and shape with normal protrusion from the
sides of the head.
Procedure
Description
- The operation
is usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.
- The ears
are usually bandaged with a dressing that wraps around the head
in a turban-like fashion for several days.
- Initial
mild postoperative discomfort is easily controlled with oral
medication.
- The procedure
is appropriate beginning at the age four or any time thereafter.
Recuperation
and Healing
- The ears
usually look "normal" within 10 to 20 days.
- Usually,
a thin stocking cap or headband is worn at night for three weeks
after the first dressing is removed to protect the ears.
- Contact
sports should be avoided for about a month.
Other
Options
- Any facial procedure
that is desired or appropriate would enhance the result.
Insurance
Guidelines
- Insurance
usually does not cover this procedure.
Note
- The specific
risk and suitability of the procedure for a given individual
can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical
procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that
do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications
are unusual.
Photographs
- No photographs
are currently available for this procedure.
|
