Frequent Questions About Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

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Below you will find a list of frequent questions about Ear Surgery (Otoplasty). If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please contact us and be sure to include the procedure name and your question!

• How is the procedure done?
• How do I prepare for this procedure?
• How long does the procedure take?
• What form of anesthesia is used?
• Can I return home the same day?
• How long before I can return to normal activity?

How is the procedure done?

Surgical techniques for ear surgery will vary depending on the problem you want to correct. One of the more common techniques is for surgeons to make a small incision in the back of the ear that exposes the cartilage. Your surgeon will sculpt and shape the cartilage to the desired position, and then bend it back toward your head. In most cases, nonremovable stitches will be used to maintain your new shape. To provide a more natural looking ear fold, your surgeon may remove a larger piece of cartilage when the procedure is completed.

Another technique your surgeon may choose is to make a smaller incision in the back of your ear. Skin is removed, instead of cartilage, and stitches are then used to fold the cartilage on to itself. This technique pulls the ear back flat against your head and enables your surgeon to reshape the ear without removing cartilage. The technique your physician uses will depend on your ear's current condition and the result you want to achieve. In most cases, the surgery leaves a light scar on the back side of your ear that will fade over time. To create a more balanced appearance, surgeons will normally operate on both ears even if only one ear is misshapen.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

Your surgeon will evaluate your ears and speak with you about the results you would like to achieve and recommend the most effective technique.

How long does the procedure take?

Ear surgeries generally take two to three hours to perform. However, procedures that are complicated in nature may take longer.

What form of anesthesia is used?

For ear operations performed on young girls, general anesthesia is normally used so the child remains still throughout the operation. For older children and grown women, surgeons will normally use local anesthesia and a sedative, which means you will be awake but very relaxed.

Can I return home the same day?

In most cases, ear surgery is performed on an outpatient basis (no overnight hospital stay is required) in a hospital or surgical suite in your physician's office. However, for more complicated procedures, your physician may recommend that you plan to stay over night in a hospital. Surgeons also may recommend that children stay over night in a hospital even for simple procedures until all the effects from general anesthesia completely wear off.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

You will need to avoid any physical activity that could involve the bending of your ear for about a month. The average adult should allow for about five days of recovery before returning to work. Children should plan on spending a quiet restful week away from school after ear surgery. Even with a week off, children should be very careful when returning to playground activities. It might be wise to alert teachers to your child's condition so they can provide closer supervision.

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