What to expect from otoplasty

Otoplasty, commonly referred to as ear pinning surgery, is a procedure designed to improve the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. It's often performed to correct protruding ears or other ear deformities. Revered plastic, ENT (ear, nose and throat) surgeon Dr Fas Arshad lets us know what we can expect from the procedure.  

What is the otoplasty procedure like?

The otoplasty procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetics, allowing the patient to remain awake while eliminating pain. This approach minimises risks associated with general anaesthesia and reduces overall recovery time. The surgery typically takes about one hour to complete, making it a relatively quick outpatient procedure.

The surgeon makes a discreet incision behind the ear, which helps to conceal any potential scarring. Through this incision, the surgeon reshapes the cartilage to achieve the desired contour and position of the ears. Once the reshaping is complete, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches, which do not require removal. After the surgery, a bandage is applied to the ears to protect the area and support healing.

Will I experience any pain during or after the procedure?

During the otoplasty procedure, the ears are completely numbed with local anaesthetic, ensuring that the patient experiences no discomfort. After the anaesthetic wears off, patients might experience mild pain or discomfort, which is typically manageable with over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol. It's crucial to follow the surgeon’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and to minimise any discomfort.

How long does the otoplasty procedure typically take?

The otoplasty procedure itself generally takes about one hour. This duration can vary slightly depending on the complexity of the surgery and the specific corrections being made. Given the relatively short time frame, patients can return home the same day.

What is the recovery process like after?

Recovery from otoplasty is straightforward but requires careful adherence to post-operative care guidelines. After the procedure, a bandage is worn over the ears for about five days. This bandage helps to protect the surgical site, minimise swelling, and maintain the new ear shape.

Once the bandage is removed, patients will notice that the stitches used during the procedure are dissolvable, eliminating the need for a follow-up visit to have them removed. It's important to keep the area clean and to follow any additional care instructions provided by the surgeon. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week, although it's advisable to avoid strenuous activities or any situation where the ears might be subjected to trauma during the initial healing period.

What results can I expect with otoplasty surgery?

Otoplasty offers natural-looking results, improving the aesthetic appearance of the ears. Patients can expect an enhanced ear shape with a more natural ear-to-scalp angle, which can significantly improve overall facial harmony. The results are designed to be subtle, yet impactful, creating a balanced look without appearing overly altered.

Will the results of otoplasty be permanent?

The results of otoplasty are generally permanent. Once the ears have healed, they should maintain their new shape and position for life. A very small percentage of patients might require a minor adjustment or "tweak" after the initial healing phase to achieve optimal results, but this is not common.

Otoplasty is a highly effective surgical procedure for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of their ears. With minimal pain, a quick recovery period, and long-lasting results, it is a popular choice for both children and adults who are self-conscious about their ears. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon is the first step towards understanding if otoplasty is the right solution for your needs. With proper care and realistic expectations, patients can achieve a natural and pleasing outcome that boosts confidence and overall appearance.

To schedule an appointment with Dr Arshad simply visit his Top Doctors profile today.