Widely known as cosmetic ear surgery, otoplasty has been recognized as amongst the most popular types of plastic surgery practiced west of the world’s hemisphere. Those who seek otoplasty surgery have many options, but for sure, they also have a lot of questions about this procedure. Today, we’ll lend our ears, pun intended, to some of the most frequently asked questions about this treatment.
1. Q: “How does otoplasty work?”
A: Otoplasty can be performed by employing different techniques. Most of these involve cutting small incisions either in front, behind, or through the ear, then pinning backward the protruding ear so that it becomes closer to the head. This technique can minimize scarring and be unseen and unnoticeable by incisions either behind the ear lobe or through the ear. A newer, incisionless otoplasty is available in the GTA. It involves manual reshaping the ear by permanently placing skin stitches then hiding them underneath so that skin-piercing will be unnecessary. Surgeons do this so that they can remodel cartilages according to the preference and desires of their patients.
2. Q: “What are the benefits that I can get from otoplasty?”
A: A lot of benefits can come from undergoing ear surgery otoplasty. If you have noticeably protruded and large ears, this procedure can help you have higher self-esteem and boost your confidence. Parents opt their children to this procedure because it lessens their child’s chances of getting bullied, especially for middle-aged kids in school. In addition, it helps wearing glasses or earrings become comfortable. One great importance one can benefit from this is that this can correct congenital ear issues like Microtia and Anotia aside from treating complications caused by blunt-force trauma or those from physical injuries like accidentally torn-out piercings.
3. Q: “How old do I need to be to do otoplasty?”
A: No such ideal age or restrictions are in place when undergoing otoplasty. Children around four (4) to five (5) years of age are already eligible to undergo this surgery as long as they have fully developed ears since these times are the ear-developing years. But it is best recommended to consult at least two (2) plastic surgeons before your child undergoes this procedure. This consultation ensures your child will be all set for it. By doing so, future complications and problems can be addressed beforehand, especially for the upcoming formative years of your children.
4. Q: “How long will my recovery period be?”
A: Both for children and adults, the entire recovery period may take around four (4) to six (6) weeks, with results noticeable right away after the removal of the protective dressing on your face. Adults, young and older, usually return to their school or work a week respectively to eight (8) days after their otoplasty surgery, but are not encouraged to participate yet in strenuous physical activities for a month or so may cause complications to the surgery.
5. Q: “Are there risks involved in otoplasty? What are they?”
A: You don’t need to worry about risks involved in otoplasty since there are very minimal after-effects, especially if you have a board-certified and ENT-specialized surgeon. Post-operative complications that may occur could include scarring visible than expected, infection from not correctly closed or cared for entry wounds, or even those of asymmetrical nature.
6. Q: “How much does it cost?”
A: Unfortunately, most insurance providers do not cover otoplasty as it is an elective cosmetic procedure and not done for severe medical reasons. But with a proper discussion with your insurance company or even your employer could potentially result in an agreed coverage, even at least a portion of the cost.
7. Q: “Do I need to do anything after my procedure?”
A: Someone needs to drive you after your surgery because your face will be partial if not fully covered after. Having a close friend or a relative can also be helpful in your recovery from your otoplasty. General anesthesia used on you for the procedure may take time to wear off, so you might need a helping hand as you also focus on resting and relaxing after your surgery.
8. Q: “Are these results going to be permanent?”
A: Fortunately, results you get from otoplasty are intended to be permanent. Since this procedure is only performed on those who have grown into their adult ears, repeating the procedure is not reasonably possible after doing it the first time. Even for young patients, results are expected to last a lifetime.
9. Q: “Can I do other procedures along with otoplasty?”
A: Aside from the appearance of their ears, many people are also concerned with other parts of their faces. And it’s a good thing that otoplasty can be done alongside other facial surgeries. Usual combinations with ear surgery are rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, and eyelid surgery.
10. Q: “Does this procedure affect my hearing?”
A: Don’t worry; your hearing will still be okay and won’t be obscured or affected at all since otoplasty is a procedure strictly done on the outer ear area. The most common areas altered during this surgery are the ear tips, the ear size, the cartilage of the outer ear, and at times, the ear lobes even. Since this procedure doesn’t concern the inner ear structure, there is a minimal likelihood of your hearing becoming changed by this procedure.
11. Q: “Will I need a break after my procedure?”
A: Of course, any surgery would require at least an ample amount of time for recovery. After your otoplasty, you can be required to at least take time off for the next five (5) to seven (7) days, or even around two (2) to three (3) days if you already feel capable of returning to work or school. If there’s a possibility, try to work remotely after the surgery so you won’t miss out on essential projects or deadlines while you recover and get fully healed and back on your feet.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been ridiculed and have become self-conscious about the appearance of your ears ever since then, this might be the right time for you to find a solution for you to feel confident about every aspect of your appearance. From prominent and protruded ears to minor cosmetic enhancements and alterations, otoplasty can be the solution you’ve been waiting and looking for, especially for those between the ages of five and 65 – right time, right now!
If you feel an otoplasty is a good option for your cosmetic needs, contact our great friends from the Cache Valley Facial Plastics, one of the premier experts in the field, to schedule your first appointment today. Visit them now. https://cvfacialplastics.com/about-us/
