Otoplasty is the surgical procedure performed on the ears, aimed at correcting their shape, position, or size. With this operation, the aesthetic problems resulting from the shape of the ears are treated. The operation is performed on the ears’ outer part, the so-called auricle or pinna.
The auricle consists of folds of cartilaginous tissue covered by skin. Its development begins before birth and continues into early childhood. If the development of the auricle does not meet the anatomical standards of the ear, then we can proceed to the remodeling of the ear cartilage with the surgery of otoplasty.
Prominent ears or, according to the scientific terminology, ‘protruding ears’, are one of the most common genetic facial deformities (about 5% of the general population). We find it in both boys and girls, while the problem it causes is purely aesthetic. Consequently, on many occasions, a child with prominent ears feels disadvantaged in terms of their appearance, and, if this is not corrected early enough, it may significantly affect their self-confidence and probably their daily life in the future. In fact, oftentimes these children become the object of tactless teasing at school and in parties, which can significantly affect their emotional state.
Otoplasty is usually performed in cases where one or both ears:
The main goals of the operation are:
Suitable candidates are those who:
Modern otoplasty can deliver an excellent aesthetic result that significantly boosts our patient’s self-confidence.
For more information, you can call the following numbers:
Before the operation, it is very important to discuss your expectations and wishes regarding the final result with the surgeon. The surgeon will assess the size, shape and position of your ears and explain the procedure that will be performed in your case. Do not hesitate to ask questions if something is not clear to you or if you feel you need further information. A qualified ENT-surgeon can respond to all your queries and dispel any doubts.
The otoplastic surgery takes place in organized nursing centers, usually without requiring an overnight stay. The duration of the procedure is usually between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the characteristics of the ear and the complexity of the operation. The main goal in corrective ear surgery is to achieve a flawless result that satisfies the patient.
In adults and teenagers, it is possible to do local anesthesia and sedation, while in children aged 5-13 years general anesthesia is recommended.
Otoplasty techniques are divided into those that cut the cartilage (cartilage-splitting/cutting techniques) and those that preserve and shape the cartilage (cartilage-sparing techniques).
In brief, the operation includes:
At the end of the otoplasty, a bandage is placed on the head to stabilize the result. The bandage is removed after 24 hours. Post-operative pain is minimal. The sutures are removed 7 days after the operation. Nevertheless, most of the times the sutures used are absorbable and therefore do not require removal. The patient will have to wear a band for 15 days, which can be obtained from a sporting gear store. Its role is to hold the auricles in place until healing is complete. The results of the surgery on prominent ears can already be seen immediately after the removal of the bandages that support them. In more extensive operations the result will be seen gradually over time when the swelling subsides.
In short, we need to mention that for some time after otoplasty it is important to avoid: μετά την ωτοπλαστική είναι σημαντικό να αποφεύγονται:
Following the instructions you will receive from the surgeon is the key to the success of the operation. Before leaving the clinic, the patient will receive detailed instructions on what to watch out for after the operation. The doctor will always be available to respond to any question either by phone or in person.
The experience of a specialized ENT-surgeon and the comfort you will feel with them are important means of achieving your common goal. This is none other than an excellent post-operative result that fully satisfies both.
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the outer part of the ears, specifically the auricle, aiming to correct their shape or size. This procedure is intended to address aesthetic concerns only.
Otoplasty is performed in the following cases:
When the patient has protruding ears
When the ears are smaller or larger than normal
When there is a significant ear deformity
Individuals over the age of 5
Those who are bothered by the appearance of their ears
Those who are dissatisfied with the results of a previous surgery
After an initial consultation with the specialized ENT surgeon, where you’ll express your goals and have all your questions answered, you will undergo otoplasty.
The surgery lasts between 1 to 2 hours and can be performed under local or general anesthesia. There are two main techniques used:
Techniques where the cartilage is cut
Techniques where the cartilage is reshaped using special sutures
The bandage is removed the following day, and pain is minimal. Stitches are taken out after 7 days unless they are absorbable, in which case no removal is needed.
It is recommended to wear a headband for 15 days during the day and for another 15 days only at night. This helps keep the ears in place until their final position is stabilized.
Intense contact or scratching of the ears
Sleeping on either side
Wearing tight clothing
Using headphones
Exposing the incisions to sunlight