PROMINENT EAR SURGERY

Most prominent ears lack a normal fold of cartilage, which can lead to one ear appearing worse than the other. Children with prominent ears often face teasing at school, affecting their self-esteem. Ear removal surgery, commonly known as otoplasty, can correct these deformities by setting the ears back closer to the head and creating a more natural appearance. This surgery typically occurs after the age of 5, when the cartilage has sufficient strength to hold stitches, with the goal being improvement rather than perfection, as perfect symmetry in ears is unlikely and unnatural. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia for children, while older children or adults may have it done under local anesthesia combined with intravenous sedation. A skin incision is made behind the ear to expose the cartilage, which is sculpted and secured with permanent stitches to maintain its new shape. Excess skin and tissue are removed, and a turban-like headbandage is applied to aid in molding and healing, leaving a faint scar that fades over time.

Post-surgery, children often start moving around within a few hours but may remain in the hospital overnight until the effects of anesthesia wear off. Mild discomfort can occur, manageable with painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. The turban bandages are typically removed after about 10 days, along with any necessary stitches, and a lighter head dressing is worn for six weeks, particularly at night. Most children can return to school after one week, while adults may go back to work within 48 hours. Although the scar behind the ear generally fades well, there is a rare chance it may become red and lumpy, especially in Black or Asian patients. Infection is uncommon but treatable with antibiotics, and minor bleeding may occur, usually controlled by the dressing. Loss of correction can happen if the ears are traumatized before healing is complete, and numbness or tingling may persist for weeks or months. In some cases, further surgical correction might be needed. Understanding the potential complications of ear surgery can help set realistic expectations for recovery, and our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your decision.

4o mini