Ear Correction Surgery, as known as Otoplasty, is an operation that we have done to improve the outward opening of our ears when the angle between our head and our ears is higher than normal.
Ear Correction Surgery
Ear Correction Surgery is performed under general anesthesia in children, under local anesthesia in adults and takes about 1 to 2 hours. After making incision behind the ear, we will remove excess cartilage and skin. Then we will fold the cartilage into the proper position and secure it with internal stitches to allow the ear to get closer to the head. We will close the incisions with the outside stitches.
Pain After Surgery
You may experience moderate pain due to swelling in the ears at first 3 days after the surgery. In the following days the pain will be getting lighter. Pain after the first week is not an expected condition.
Recovery After Surgery
After the surgery you will wear a sports headband that wraps the ears. First two weeks day and night, the next two weeks only at night. You will be discharged from the hospital after surgery. After 3 days you are allowed to take a bath. During the period of 2 weeks, daily dressing continues to the area where the stitches are. the suture applied to the area behind the ear is regularly dressed. The stitches behind the ear will dissolve on their own after about 1 month. Swelling in the ear completely disappears after 2 weeks.
You will have 3rd day check-up after the ear correction surgery in doctor’s clinic. On the check-up, your dressing will be changed. Then, you are free to fly.
Scar After Surgery
In the ear correction surgery, the scar can’t be visible because the incision will be behind the ear. The skin behind the ear is so thin and heal fast, therefore at 6th month the scars will not be seen.
What to Consider After Surgery
- It is necessary to rest at home for 3 days.
- It is essential to wear sports headband for the period directed.
- The dressing should not be interrupted.
- For about 2 months avoid to fold the ear.
Risks After Surgery
- Bleeding or hematoma formation
- Problems with stitches
- Infection
- Asymmetry in ear placement
Frequently Asked Questions
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My ear sticked out too far from my head again after ear correction surgery. What should I do?
It is a condition that we may encounter after ear correction surgery. The use of the given sports band and the anatomical structure of the person is the factor. In such cases, a second surgery may be required.
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Is there an age limit for ear correction surgery?
The age limit for scoop ear surgery depends on the completion of ear development. Since 85 percent of ear development is completed until the age of 5, it is best to perform before starting primary school (psychologically unaffected by the environment) and after 5 years of age.
