Surgery for Pinning the Ears Back

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure that is done to set a person's ears closer to their head. This helps reduce the size of the ear. This operation, according to lookingyourbest.com, is most often done on children who are between the ages of 4 and 14. The surgery can also be done on adults and usually results in fewer risks. Otoplasty isn't for everyone and should be researched before deciding upon it.

Risks

• There are risks associated with this type of surgery. These risks and complications are usually minor. The first risk is that the patient may develop a blood clot in their ear. However, this can be resolved through drainage by a needle. The second risk that may develop is an infection in the cartilage of the ear.

Presurgery

• Before the operation begins, the surgeon will look at the condition of the patient's ear and will recommend ways to better prepare for surgery. These instructions can include general anesthesia for a younger person. For those who are older, the surgeon may recommend using local anesthesia combined with a sedative. This helps keep the patient relaxed throughout the operation.

Surgery

• This type of surgery takes around three hours, depending on the structure of the patient's ear. The surgery consists of the surgeon making a small incision in the back of the patient's ear. Then, the surgeon will restructure the cartilage and move it back toward the patient's head. The surgeon will then apply stitches to help maintain the shape of the ear. In some operations, cartilage may actually be removed completely. The surgery tends to leave a scar on the back of the ear, which may go away with proper care.

Post-surgery

• The post-surgery procedures are important to ensure proper healing of the ear. The patient may stay overnight at the hospital after the operation, but it isn't usually necessary. The patient's head will most likely be wrapped in a bondage to help it heal. After a few days, the patient will wear a lighter dressing around the ear to protect it. The patient should avoid activities in which the ear may be hit or moved for a month or so after the surgery.

Warning

• It is important to consider all options before deciding on otoplasty. If you decide that is your best choice, seek advice from your doctor on which surgeon to go to, and speak with the surgeon yourself before going through with the procedure.