Otoplasty is dedicated to the ears in which all the evident ear defects are discarded. One of the common ear abnormalities is the unusual shape. In this case, several folks tend to possess protruding or bent ears because of a few birth anomalies or due to a traumatic damage. But, having such a birth defect does not signify that you cannot rectify your deformed ears. And certainly to correct this defect,
otoplasty has been introduced in the world of surgeries. It is a remedial surgery that has the power to redesign the cartilage of the ear. You will appreciate the fact that this surgery is mainly performed during the childhood stage to avoid embarrassment later, particularly in children who are between 4 and 14. These are the perfect aspirants for otoplasty. It is seen that many a times; discernible ear deformities can impede self esteem in kids. So, it is always recommended that otoplasty must be performed as soon as possible for the psychological welfare of these kids.
>> The procedure
Before we understand the surgery in detail, we should know the reason behind the bizarre ear shape. This asymmetrical shape is because of the cartilage deformities. Many a times, surplus cartilage might exist that is the direct cause of the protruding shape. And otoplasty just aims at removing these irregularities of the cartilage. So, if you have decided to go for otoplasty, it is required that you discuss all about the surgery with the concerned surgeon. During these sessions, the surgeon will also examine the ear shape and would identify the curative measures for the same. Such measures could be cartilage removal, folding the cartilage back, or some amount of skin removal (rare cases) for ear reshaping. To ensure a symmetrical appearance, the surgery is done on the two ears simultaneously.
At the time of the surgery, first, the surgeon looks for the most unremarkable ear part and then performs an incision on that spot. Then, using a suitable corrective measure, he or she starts giving a novel shape to the ear. In order to maintain the cartilage at its place, non detachable stitches are performed, while detachable stitches aid in closing the incision spot. Finally, the complete head is coated in thick bandages. After some rest, the patient is allowed to go home.
>> After surgery
One will experience swelling or stains in the ear. In some days, the light bandages take over the thick bandages. In addition, in these days, headache and dizziness are common to occur. Do not get disappointed by glancing at the swollen ears after the surgery. Just understand that the surgery effects will consume some time to fade away. Just in a week’s time, you will be happy to see the normal size of the ears.
>> Recovery time
This, for otoplasty, is less as compared to the different plastic surgeries. Children are asked to rest for a week, while adults are requested to do so for some days. Parents are advised to prevent the kids from energetic plays and tasks. This is because the shape of the cartilage must be left untroubled for a minimum time of 30 days. The surgeon will provide a dedicated headband to safeguard the ear shape, which must be worn even at night when asleep. If at all there are infections or headaches, the surgeon will prescribe the suitable medications. Only in rare cases wherein the infection is cruel, a surgical drain might be needed. In short, the healing period is 6 weeks after which one can enjoy the advantages of otoplasty. This indicates that the recovery time is not too aching or long.
