Sometimes we feel a little sad and worried about certain things in our body, don't we? Especially about the appearance of our ears. Some people's ears are a little too big, while others have their ears protruding forward. Things like this can also reduce the self-confidence they have to face society. So is there a solution to this? Yes, that's what the surgery we're talking about today is called 'Otoplasty'. Let's talk about this simply, in a way that you can understand.
What is Otoplasty?
Simply put, Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects any changes or imperfections in the external appearance of the ear. It is done to give your ears a more natural, beautiful appearance. This can greatly increase your self-confidence. But there is one important thing you must remember.
Although this surgery changes the appearance of your ear, it will not affect your hearing in any way. This means that your hearing will not improve or worsen. This is purely a cosmetic surgery.
Who needs otoplasty surgery?
There may be various reasons for having this surgery.
- Ear injuries: For example, a car accident, a dog bite, or a sports accident can cause damage to the ear. In such cases, this surgery is used to restore the ear to its normal position. For example, this surgery is also used to correct the 'Cauliflower ear' condition that occurs in boxers.
- Congenital differences: Some children are born with protruding ears. This can make them feel very sad when other children tease them at school. Some children's ears can also be very small or large at birth.
- Personal preference: Anyone who is dissatisfied with the size or shape of their ears can undergo this surgery with the aim of improving their appearance and self-confidence.
This surgery is usually performed on children after the age of 4-5 years, because by that age, the ear development is almost complete. Also, there is no obstacle for adults to have this surgery at any age.
What types of otoplasty surgery are there?
There are several types of Otoplasty surgery depending on your needs. These are the three main types.
| Type of surgery | Why and how is it done? |
|---|---|
| Ear Augmentation | This is done for very small ears ( microtia ) or ears that are not fully developed. In this procedure, tissue is taken from another part of the body to enlarge the outer part of the ear. |
| Ear Pinning | This surgery is performed to bring protruding ears closer to the head. Many people in Sri Lanka undergo this type of surgery. |
| Ear Reduction | If you have ears that are larger than normal ( macrotia ), this surgery is performed to make the ear smaller by removing a portion of tissue from the ear. |
How do you prepare before surgery?
Once you decide to have this surgery, your doctor will explain to you clearly what you need to do. These are usually the following:
- Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to accompany you on the day of surgery and to bring you home.
- If you smoke, stop smoking completely for a few weeks before surgery.
- Avoid taking certain painkillers, especially Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g. Ibuprofen, Diclofenac) and aspirin, as they increase the risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor about this and get advice.
How is the surgery done?
This is a surgery that usually takes about one to three hours. An anesthesiologist will anesthetize you so that you don't feel any pain. Either you will be put completely to sleep (General Anesthesia), or you will be put to sleep and only your ear will be numbed (Local Anesthesia with Sedation).
The surgeon then follows these steps:
1. Making an incision: This incision is usually made behind the ear or between the folds of the ear. This way, the scar will not be visible later.
2. Tissue modification: Depending on your needs, tissue is removed, added, or cartilage is reshaped from the ear.
3. Shaping: The ear is given the desired new shape.
4. Suturing: Dissolvable stitches or stitches that are removed later are used to close the incision.
This is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day after surgery.
What should I do after the surgery?
After surgery, your ears will be covered with a dressing. It is very important to keep this clean and dry. Take care of these things during the recovery period:
- Avoid touching or rubbing your ears.
- Instead of wearing a T-shirt over your head, wear button-up shirts. That way, it won't get stuck in your ears when you change clothes.
- When sleeping, sleep on your back. Do not sleep on your side, which puts pressure on your ears.
- Go to your doctor's appointment and remove the bandage.
What are the benefits and risks of this?
Like any surgery, this one has benefits and very minor risks.
| Benefits | Risks |
|---|---|
|
|
These risks are very rare. There is no need to panic about them, but it is important to be aware.
What are the emergencies that require seeing a doctor?
If you experience any of these symptoms after surgery, call your doctor immediately.
- If you get a fever
- If there is an accident or injury to the surgical site
- If there is excessive bleeding
- If there is unusual swelling
If you see things like this, it is very important to seek medical advice without delay.
Take-Home Message
- Otoplasty is a surgery to change the appearance of the ear, not a surgery related to hearing.
- This is a safe and successful surgery that can be performed on both children and adults.
- To achieve the best results, it is essential to follow the doctor's instructions carefully after surgery.
- If you are also concerned about the appearance of your ears, don't worry about it, but talk to a doctor to learn more about this.
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