Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping)

"My ears are too big" is a comment many Plastic Surgeons hear during patient consultations. What few people realise is that the problem is not necessarily the size of the ears but just that they stick out too far. In most cases pinning the ears alongside the head solves the problem completely.

It is a concern for adults as well as parents. Ears that stick out make kids easy targets for teasing, jokes and mean and derogatory nicknames. That is why the sooner in life this problem is corrected the better.

The procedure can be performed as early as aged 4 or 5.

The Ear Surgery Procedure

Ear surgery alone takes approximately one hour to perform. The surgery can be performed under local or general anaesthetic with no overnight stay in hospital being necessary.

Although there are a number of different approaches which address this procedure, the most common one involves the reshaping or removing of some of the cartilage behind the ear.

After opening the back of the ear the Surgeon either removes some of the cartilage or folds it onto itself and sutures it together.

Since the work is done at the back of the ear any scars are usually faint and can be hidden in the creases.

Disolving sutures are used which means you do not have to go to the hospital to have them removed.

The Healing Process

Typically most patients are up and around a day or two after surgery. You will be quite presentable one week after surgery, however full healing can take up to three months.

Rest with your head elevated for the first 3-5 days. You can shampoo your hair once your dressing has been removed. Do not wrap the towel around your head as this will pull the ears forward. Dry thoroughly behind the ears after each shower, using a hair dryer if the ears are too tender to rub.

Burning, tightness, itchiness and puffiness are normal for the first few weeks. Any excessive bleeding, discoloration or swelling should be immediately reported to us at the hospital.

Risk or Complications

Incisions are closed along the skin's natural lines and creases, however some scars are unavoidable. Usually they fade gradually and become barely noticable.

At North West Independent Hospital we can offer all aspects of healthcare including cosmetic surgery.

We pride ourselves on the professional and caring services offered to patients, with treatment by an experienced and accredited Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

Cosmetic Procedures Include:
Facelife / Mini Facelift, Breast Augmentation (Breast Enlargement), Breast Reduction, Otoplasty (Bat Ears), Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery), Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Liposuction, Rhinoplasty (Nose Re-Shaping), Scar Revision, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Tattoo Removal, Injectable Therapies.