Prominent Ears Surgery (Otoplasty)
The goal of otoplasty is to reshape and reposition the ears to give them a more normal and symmetric appearance. Three objective and one subjective criterion are used to assess the ears and decide whether they are symmetrical or not.
The objective factors are size, shape and especially angle, at which the prominent auricle stands out. The normal size of an ear is roughly one third of the head’s size. The shape should be regularly developed in all parts of the auricle, the relief should be distinct and it should not be deformed. If the angle, at which the auricle stands out, is too big, it may be the source of teasing from the others and prominent ears may be a frustrating problem not only in childhood, but also later in life. The evidence that it is a really serious problem is also the fact, that until 10 years of age the otoplasty is a procedure fully covered by health insurance. Once older than 10 years, the otoplasty is considered aesthetic surgery and therefore the health insurance does not cover it anymore.
The objective factors are size, shape and especially angle at which the prominent auricle stands out. The normal size of an ear is roughly one third of the head’s size. The shape should be regular in all parts of the auricle; the relief should be distinct not deformed. If the angle at which the auricle stands out is too large, it may be the source of teasing. Prominent ears can be a frustrating problem not only in childhood, but also in later life. The seriousness of this problem is recognized by the fact that up to age 10, otoplasty surgery is fully covered by health insurance. At a later age, this procedure is considered aesthetic surgery and is no longer covered by health insurance.
Consultation and a detailed examination precede every ear surgery. The surgeon will assess the shape of the auricle, quality of the skin and cartilage (especially its elasticity) and discuss the angle. Then the surgeon will then plan the operation.
During the surgery cartilage is remodeled and the excess skin behind the auricle is removed. The size of the auricle can also be corrected if necessary. Most surgeries are performed under local anesthetic and do not require a hospital stay. Operation techniques will depend on the extent of the correction and elasticity of the cartilage. The incisions are generally placed behind the ear. At the end of the procedure, the wound is closed with absorbable sutures, which do not require removal. The patient’s head is wrapped in an elastic bandage immediately following the surgery which holds the ears in position with gentle pressure.
After a few days, the initial bandage is replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a headband. All bandages can be removed in 10 to 14 days. We recommend that the patient wear an elastic headband for some time, especially at night, and depending on the operation, also during the day
Patients usually tolerate the procedure well and are satisfied with the results. Complications are rare and not serious. There can be some bleeding. The need for surgical revision is very rare.