Otoplasty, the reconstruction of the external ear, is performed more frequently than any other ear surgery. The most common ear surgery is otoplasty in Islamabad which aims to enhance the appearance of the ears. Many different people of various ages widely use this procedure to fix or enhance the appearance of their ears.
What is Otoplasty?
Ear surgery is a procedure that changes the shape of the external ear flap. People with ears that grow from the head unevenly, are asymmetrical or differ in size, or have genetically determined ear conditions can be treated.
Protruding ears: Prominently sticking out ears that are visible from the sides of the head.
Lop ear: A condition in which the tip of the ear turns downwards.
Shell ear: A disease in which some parts of the ear are not developed and thus the external part of the ears has a smooth surface like a shell.
Why Do People Get Otoplasty?
Most young people feel embarrassed to go out when they have developed an ear defect like protruding ears. Some people may also get otology for cosmetic reasons.
There are both aesthetic and psychological reasons why someone might choose this surgery:
Improved Appearance:
The primary reason for otology is to create an aesthetically appealing appearance of ears about the whole face. The procedure eliminates asymmetries and makes the facial features look more balanced and in harmony with propriety.
Boost in Confidence:
Some of the otoplasty patients claim that having the surgery makes them more confident in how they look at the new look they get. It helps to relieve social interaction pressure and enhance their quality of life.
Childhood Concerns:
The child, usually between the ages of 5-14, undergoes otopathy most commonly. At this age, individuals may choose to undergo ear surgery to avoid teasing and bullying due to large or oddly shaped ears.
Medical Conditions or Injuries:
When congenital abnormalities, injuries, or trauma cause defects, surgery is performed for treatment. These may also need ear surgery beyond the cosmetic correction of shape and size.
Things To Expect Before The Procedure
Before getting an otoplasty, you will have an appointment with a surgeon who is professional in performing ear operations. During this consultation, the surgeon will:
- Judge the contour and the dimensions of the ears.
- Describe the intention and expectation you have towards the process.
- Discuss the features of the surgery and possible complications as well as advantages.
- You can ask us any relevant questions that you may have.
The Otoplasty Procedure:
The patient does not usually need hospitalization after undergoing otology as a day surgery. However, the surgery regularly takes 1 to 3 hours to complete, depending on the specific method that a patient needs.
Here’s what happens during the procedure:
Incision:
The surgeon will determine where he has to make the incision to operate the ear and most times, he operates behind the ear or inside natural folds that are not easily visible.
Reshaping and Repositioning:
The surgeon will then have to sculpt the cartilage of the ear into the normal shape and position it naturally. It may require chiseling, cutting, or carving of the cartilage in an effort to hopefully bring the ear closer to the head.
Sutures:
After the achievement of the desired shape, the surgeon is going to fix the ear in place with the help of the sutures. Then the incision is sewn up and the ears are covered by a special bandage.
Recovery After Otoplasty:
Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period:
Bandages: For the protection of these delicate structures and proper position setting, they require the doctor to fit a bandage or headband around their ears for about 3 to 5 days after surgery.
Swelling and Discomfort: The patient can bear some swelling, bruising, and sting in the operating area in the initial 2-3 days after ear surgery.
Rest: The first several days require no strenuous activity, and the ears should not be manipulated in a way that will allow them to be bent or bumped.
Follow-up Appointments: After surgery, you will have some regular appointments with your surgeon: to assess the skin’s healing and to take out stitches, if any.
Are There Any Risks?
Otoplasty like any other surgery is not free from some risks but they are less common. Potential complications include:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Overcorrection or asymmetry
- Ear protrusion revisits
Final Thoughts:
Cosmetic or reconstructive, otopathy may have the potential to enhance the lives of individuals by bolstering their facial features and building up their self-esteem.
You are encouraged to visit SKN Cosmetics and consult with our qualified plastic surgeon if you’re interested in this type of surgery. You can discover the options available to you and come up with a plan of action that best suits your particular case.