Otoplasty (ear Surgery) - A Plastic Surgery Procedure
Otoplasty or ear surgery is a plastic surgery procedure that reshapes the ears
. Protruding, large or misshapen ears can sometimes take away from our facial appearance and be a source of psychological stress even to children and adults of any age.
Plastic surgeons assess the condition of the patient and discuss the desirable outcome before the surgery. Typically a general anesthesia is administered to the patient before the surgery. This helps ease any pain or discomfort. The incisions made allow access to the cartilage of the ear then reshaped either by removing, minimizing or augmenting the cartilage. The protruding ear is then brought closer to the scalp. The treatment removes irregularities and brings about the proper proportions of the ears with respect to one's face. The incisions are skillfully kept hidden behind the ears. The treated area is then appropriately covered with a dressing for a period of time specified by the plastic surgeon. The procedure takes about two hours and the incisions heal in about a week.
Otoplasty can be done on either one or both the ears. This plastic surgery procedure benefits especially children about the age of six and on. This is the time when the cartilage is pliable and can be reshaped to give a proper shape to the ears. It is advisable to consult an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon who would advise the patient on the care and precautions that must be taken before and after the procedure.