Cosmetic Ear Reshaping Procedure: Fixing Sticking-Out Ears!
Prominent ears, often causing self-consciousness, can be corrected with a surgical procedure known as otoplasty. This procedure reshapes or repositions the ear cartilage, bringing the ears closer to the head and improving their appearance and symmetry.
Causes of Prominent Ears
Prominent ears are usually congenital, due to underdeveloped or misshapen cartilage. They can also result from trauma or previous injuries.
Treatment Options in Otoplasty
Otoplasty offers several treatment options to address prominent ears. The ear pinning technique uses stitches behind the ear to bring ears closer to the head with minimal visible scarring, and it has a fast healing time and less pain. Traditional otoplasty involves small incisions behind the ear to reshape cartilage, suitable for various ear shapes but may leave minor scars and require longer healing. The cartilage scoring technique, which involves tiny cuts in the cartilage to reform and reposition it, is effective for very prominent ears with long-lasting results but potentially longer healing and more visible scars.
Procedure Details
Incisions are placed behind or occasionally in front of the ear to minimize visible scarring. Surgery duration typically ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. Otoplasty is most often done in certified outpatient surgical facilities. After surgery, a head wrap or bandage is applied to protect the ears.
Recovery Process
Initial bandages are typically worn for a few days, followed by a lighter headband worn at night for about 3 weeks. Pain is generally mild to moderate and controlled with medication. Minor swelling and bruising are common but resolve in weeks. Sleeping with the head elevated helps reduce swelling. Physical activity is limited for at least one week, and patients are encouraged to avoid contact sports or pressure on the ears for 4-6 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid touching or disturbing the ears during healing. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Additional Notes
Some patients may have asymmetrical ears, which surgeons will take into account. Occasionally, a second operation may be needed if the ears begin to protrude again. If the Antihelix of the ear is completely missing, it can be corrected or reconstructed from the root during otoplasty.
Otoplasty aims not only to improve ear appearance but also to increase patient confidence by correcting prominent ears with a lasting, natural-looking result. Approximately 1 to 2 people out of every hundred have Otapostasis, and there is a treatment available through otoplasty surgery. Otoplasty can be performed on both children and adults.
For those seeking treatment for prominent ear, Dr. Rajat Gupta, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in Ear Reconstruction Surgery and a member of the International Society of Auricular Reconstruction (ISAR), is available for consultation. To book an appointment with Dr. Gupta, contact 9251711711.
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- Aesthetic concerns related to prominent ears can be addressed through various treatments offered in otoplasty, a type of plastic surgery.
- Those seeking treatment for prominent ears could consider the cartilage scoring technique, which is effective for very prominent ears, or the ear pinning technique, known for minimal visible scarring and fast healing.
- In the realm of health and wellness, therapies and treatments such as otoplasty can help improve the appearance of ears, thereby enhancing the confidence of individuals with prominent ears.
- In some cases, ear reconstruction surgery may be required if the Antihelix of the ear is missing, a condition that can be addressed during otoplasty procedures.
