The surgical procedure to correct a protruding ear is called an Otoplasty.
There are a number of different types of operations designed to treat prominent ears, depending on whether the degree of protrusion is mild or severe, and on the need to correct the shape of the ear lobe.
Traditionally, Otoplastys are often performed in children, from about the age of 6, as the ear is almost fully developed.
Current legislation means that we are not able to operate on children except for extreme circumstances. A GP referral will therefore be required for all children under the age of 18. Allowable reasons to operate include emotional distress, bullying or teasing caused by the condition.
The procedures are virtually identical in adults, and both can easily be carried out in a day surgery setting.
The technique usually involves an incision at the back of the ear, which exposes the cartilage. The cartilage is then undermined (by scoring or trimming) and sutured (stitched) to reduce prominence of the ear lobe. The surgery is customized to each patient's unique needs.
Australian Skin Clinics are now using the Surgitron electronic scalpel is used to make the incision and adjust the cartilage. This has given us better results, and better healing than the standard techniques, and makes the doctor's task easier, by minimizing bleeding during the procedure.
The operation takes from 30 minutes to one hour per ear, and usually is performed using anaesthetic. Sutures typically are removed seven days after surgery, or dissolve over that time.
Post operative recovery requires the patient to wear of a headband. This helps the ear cartilage to heal in its new position and must be worn continuously for at least 10 days, to promote the best possible outcome from the procedure. Although bruising and swelling around the ears may occur, these settle, usually resolving in one to three weeks. When surgery is performed with a laser or surgitron, bruising is usually reduced.
The skin scars heal as inconspicuous thin lines in nearly all patients within a few weeks, and are usually not detectable, as they are hidden behind the ear.
Most patients advise that there is only mild discomfort after the procedure, easily controlled if necessary by analgesics. Returning to normal activities can often be achieved after only several days rest.
Important points
"Otoplasty is a common cosmetic surgery procedure, and many thousands are successfully performed each year. The potential for haematoma, infection, numbness, and hypertrophic scarring is present, but is small (approx 1%), and the use of new technology, and prophylactic antibiotics help minimize the incidence of these events. Occasionally, a second procedure may be required if the amount of correction is slightly too little, or if a treated begins to protrude again, which happens in a small number of cases" say's Simon Rosenbaum..
In general, Otoplasty is a relatively safe and straightforward operation, with great patient satisfaction.
Considering otoplasty? Call 1300 303 014 and make an appointment with Dr Simon Rosenbaum.
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