Cosmetic Ear Surgery

Cosmetic ear surgery or Otoplasty is usually performed for one of two reasons: to reduce the size of overly large ears, or to tuck back ears that stick out too far, so that they sit closer to the head.

Most ear plastic surgery is performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14; however, plenty of people opt for ear cosmetic surgery procedures in adulthood. The pinna, which is the cartilage-rich external part of the ear, does not usually grow beyond 7 years of age.

Procedures of Cosmetic Ear Surgery
Most otoplasty procedures can be completed in two to three hours. Surgeons usually use a general anesthesia on young patients, so they remain asleep throughout the surgery. Older patients are often given a combination of sedatives and local anesthesia, keeping them awake but relaxed during the procedure.

The surgical techniques the doctor will use depend on the problem being corrected. To reduce the size of ears that stick out, surgeons usually make small incisions that expose the cartilage behind the ear, then reshape or remove excess cartilage before making a "tuck" that will hold the ear closer to the head when surgery is complete. There are no cuts in front portion of pinna,so there are no visible scars after this surgery.

Risks 

• Ear surgery is one of the safest cosmetic procedures. When performed by an experienced and qualified surgeon, complications are usually minor and easily controlled. However, all surgeries carry risks; cosmetic ear surgery is no different.
• Bleeding, scar tissue, infection and reactions to anesthetics are the primary risks of ear cosmetic surgery. 
• In rare cases, a second surgical procedure may be necessary to drain an infected ear of bacteria and pus.

Recovery 

• Patients operated under with a general anesthesia may require an overnight stay in hospital until the full effects of the anesthesia wear off. 
• For older children  and adults  where local anaesthesia is used, it is a day care procedure.
• In the days following the operation, pain or throbbing sensations in the ears are the primary cause of discomfort – these symptoms can be managed with pain medications.
• Following the operation, the patient's ears are wrapped in a bulky dressing that promote the proper healing of the incisions and prevent infection. 
• After a few days, these thick bandages are replaced with lighter, less intrusive bandaging. 
• Stitches will dissolve or be removed after about a week. 
• Normal activity can be resumed within about five to seven days. 
• Children should be careful when playing and avoid any activities that bend the ears for at least one month following surgery.
• Most patients are advised to wear a sports head band around the ears at might for a period of one month.

Dr Lokesh Kumar

MB,M.S(PGI)M.Ch(Plastic)FICS

Senior Consultant Plastic surgeon

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals & Delhi aesthetic clinic

Website : http://www.dacindia.com