Ear Reduction (Otoplasty)
Ear Surgery, or Otoplasty, is usually
done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce
the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is
done on children between the ages of 4 and 14. Ear surgery on
adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional
risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.
The Procedure For Ear Reduction
Ear surgery usually takes about two
hours, although complicated procedures may take longer. The
appropriate technique will depend on the nature of the problem.
Dr. Rajagopal makes a small incision in the back of the ear
to expose the ear cartilage. Then she sculpts the cartilage
and bend it back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may
be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, Dr.
Rajagopal will remove a larger piece of cartilage to provide
a more natural-looking fold when the surgery is complete.
Another technique involves a similar incision
in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches are used
to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear without
removing cartilage. In most cases, ear surgery will leave
a faint scar in the back if the ear, which will fade with
time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery
is usually performed on both ears for a better balance.
Getting Back to Normal
After Otoplasty Surgery
Both adults and children are usually
up and around within a few hours of surgery. The patient's
head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following
surgery to promote the best molding and healing. The ears
may throb or ache a little for a few days, but this can be
relieved by medication.
Within a few days, the bulky bandages will
be replaced by a light head dressing similar to a headband.
Be sure to follow Dr. Rajagopal's directions for wearing this
dressing, especially at night. Stitches are usually removed
in two weeks. Any activity in which the ear might be bent
should be avoided for a month or so. Most children can go
back to school after seven days or so, if they're careful
about playground activity.
If you have any questions
regarding Ear Tuck Surgery, or wish to schedule a consultation
with Dr. Rajagopal, please call the San
Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at 415-392-3333.
|
