Many people worry about their looks and desire to have perfect facial features. That’s why the medical field has provided them with various cosmetic surgeries. Otoplasty is one of them. The surgery treats ear abnormalities caused at birth or by some trauma. It improves the appearance of your ear and enhances your self-confidence. However, Otoplasty does not affect your sense of hearing. At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, our experienced cosmetic surgeons perform this surgery and offer end-to-end support throughout the treatment.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, or cosmetic ear surgery, is performed to treat abnormal ear structures. The procedure involves repositioning or reshaping to improve the ear’s symmetry, size, or shape. Surgeons who perform Otoplasty are called plastic or ENT surgeons. Otoplasty can be done in several ways. This may include reducing earlobe size, trimming the cartilage, etc.

Types of Otoplasty Surgical Procedures at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka

There are different types of Otoplasty that can be done to improve ear anomalies. Patients can undergo any of them as per their needs.

• Ear augmentation – This procedure is for patients suffering from microtia. It is a condition in which people have undeveloped or small ears. In this procedure, surgeons use tissue grafting to increase the size of the ear.
• Ear reduction – This procedure is a good option for patients having macrotia. In macrotia, people have oversized or large ears. The procedure reduces the size of the ear by removing excess tissues.
• Ear pinning – The procedure is for people having prominent ears that stick out. Surgeons perform this procedure to reshape the abnormal cartilage and bring ears closer to the sides of the head.

 Otoplasty Surgery Procedure At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka

At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, we carry out the following procedure for Otoplasty surgery.

 Before the Procedure

Before the procedure, the cosmetic surgeon takes the following steps:

• You will have an in-person conversation with your surgeon. During the consultation, he will examine you and explain the procedure, results and risks.
• Next, he will review your medical history to check if you’re a suitable candidate for the surgery.
• After this, the surgeon will perform several physical examination tests. These are imaging tests to evaluate the ear’s position, symmetry, size and shape.
• You will also receive pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding smoking and certain medications, arranging for transportation, etc.

During the Procedure

The process usually takes 1 to 3 hours and is done under general anaesthesia. The procedure starts with your surgeon making an incision either inside the folds of the ear or at the back. Next, the surgeon will reshape or reposition the ear cartilage as per your requirements. The techniques used in reshaping will be removing, suturing or scoring cartilage. After repositioning or reshaping, your surgeon will close the incision with surgical glue or stitches.

After the Procedure

Post-surgery, you will be moved to the recovery room so you can be monitored until you are ready to go home. You may experience some swelling and discomfort. To avoid this, you must follow the recovery plan and take medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Recovery Period

In the first two weeks, you will feel pain due to swelling. You will be asked to avoid strenuous activities. In a month or so, your swelling will significantly reduce. Hence, it will take 4 to 6 weeks for complete recovery.

Complications and Risks of Otoplasty Surgery

Patients should discuss the risks and complications of the surgery with their surgeons. They should undergo surgery only after understanding all the pre and post-operative instructions. Some risks and complications of Otoplasty surgery are:

• Over-correction
• Under-correction
• Infection
• Scarring
• Numbness
• Haematoma
• Pain
• Swelling
• Asymmetrical ear
• Allergic reactions
• Need for revision Otoplasty
• Protruding sutures

Who is not Eligible for Otoplasty Surgery?

Certain factors can make one ineligible for Otoplasty surgery. These include:

• Under-age – Children who are too young or under 5 years old are not recommended for this surgery. The reason is that their ears may still be developing.
• Medical conditions – There is an increased risk of surgical complications in patients with medical conditions such as autoimmune disease, bleeding, diabetes, etc.
• Family history – Patients with a family medical history of keloids or hypertrophic scarring are ineligible for the surgery as they may occur after Otoplasty.
• Unrealistic expectations – Otoplasty is not considered for patients with unrealistic expectations. Patients need to understand what the surgery can and can not do.
• Smoking – Otoplasty is not a good option for smokers as the risk of complications can increase during or after the surgery.

Treatment at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka

Otoplasty or cosmetic ear surgery helps many patients with ear abnormalities. This surgery not only treats their problems but also builds confidence in them. At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, we offer the Otoplasty facility to our patients. Our specialised cosmetic surgeons organise one-on-one consultations for them. We use advanced technology to perform this surgery and give the desired outcome. Also, Apollo Hospitals’ trained medical staff deliver extensive care during and after the surgery to our patients.