Ear surgery (otoplasty) is performed to correct prominent or ‘bat’ ears or to reduce the size of large ears. Otoplasty is possible at any age, but it is often recommended for children aged five or six. Correcting the ears before the child enters school can help eliminate potential teasing and psychological trauma. Ear surgery can improve the position of your ears and overall appearance, as well as confidence and self-esteem.
The Procedure
The ears are positioned closer to the head by reshaping the cartilage. The cartilage is reshaped through incisions placed behind the ears or within ear creases so that any resulting scars are concealed. Most ear surgery is performed as day surgery under general anaesthesia. The procedure takes one to two hours. Any stitches are usually dissolvable.
Recovery from Ear Surgery
You should be up and about on the day of ear surgery but plan on taking it easy for the first week. You should be able to return to work or school five to six days after surgery. Any pain can be easily controlled by medication. A full head dressing covering both ears is usually left intact for five days after surgery. After it is removed, you may have a lukewarm shower and wash your hair.
