Otoplasty is the name of the operation performed to improve the condition called "prominent ears" among people. Also known as prominent ear aesthetics.
Having prominent ears is a very prominent situation. It is mostly seen in childhood and can cause psychological problems at these ages. The cause of prominent ear may be congenital or certain traumas may also cause this condition. It is possible to improve and reshape the appearance of the auricle with otoplasty.
Why is Otoplasty Needed?
The reasons for having prominent ears are wondered. For this, it is necessary to know the structure of the ear and auricle. The auricle consists of soft tissue and cartilage. In children, the development of the auricle is completed at 5-6 years of age. When it comes to cartilage, the situation is different. It gets a hard structure with aging. The shape of the auricle is revealed by the effects in the womb before birth. If the development is not achieved as a result of these effects, prominent ears can be seen. Ear aesthetics is aimed to restore the natural appearance of the ears.
How is Otoplasty Performed?
In the preparation process before otoplasty, consultation is made between the patient and the surgeon. As a result, the expectations of the person are understood. Generally, auricular surgery is not performed before the age of 5. The surgeon may need detailed photographs of the patient to have an idea and make comparisons.
In otoplasty performed in childhood, the ear can only be intervened with stitches since the cartilage is still flexible. Different methods can be preferred. The treated site is marked and folded, thinned, or if there is excess tissue, it can be removed. The incision is usually made behind the ear. Depending on the aesthetic concern and durability, it is closed with stitching. The fact that these methods are different from each other usually does not make one more successful than the other.
Prominent Ear Aesthetics Aftercare
It is possible to be discharged on the same day after prominent ear surgery. The next day, the doctor wants to see the person for a follow-up examination. At this time, the dressing is renewed or completely removed. No intense pain is observed after the operation, usually, painkillers are enough. It is healthy to wear a headband for several weeks for a short and good recovery.
Recovery time after otoplasty is short in adults. In order to get this, heavy exercise should be avoided during this period. For example, sports with close contact should be avoided for at least 3 months. The follow-up examinations are repeated at intervals.
Slight pain or discomfort may occur after otoplasty, but it is expected to disappear on its own within 3 weeks at the latest.
After the otoplasty surgery, the person's head is bandaged first. This is replaced with a small headband then. This headband should be used for about 1 month. It is also important for the person to avoid movements that will cause the ear to bend.
Good candidates for prominent ear aesthetics are those who have a healthy life, have realistic expectations, and are dissatisfied with the appearance of their ears. Anyone from the age of 5 to adulthood can have prominent ear aesthetics if they have these conditions.