Overview
Otoplasty – also known as cosmetic ear surgery is a procedure done to change the shape position or size of the ears. Otoplasty is done to pull back ears that stick out too far from the head. Otoplasty is also done to correct ears misshapen due to an injury or birth defect. Otoplasty can be done at any age after the ears have reached their full size.
CONSULTATION
Initially you will talk to a plastic surgeon about otoplasty.
During your first visit, your plastic surgeon will likely:
- Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer
questions about current and past medical conditions
especially any ear infections. Talk about any medications
you are taking or you have taken recently as well as any
surgeries you may have had. - Do a physical exam. To determine your treatment options
the doctor will examine your ears including their placement
size, shape and symmetry. The doctor might also take
pictures of your ears for your medical record. - Discuss your expectations. Explain why you want otoplasty,
what your expectations are and what you are hoping for
regarding the appearance after the procedure. Make sure
you understand the risks such as possible overcorrection.
If you are a good candidate for the procedure, your doctor may
recommend that you take some steps to prepare beforehand.
You will likely need to avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, which can increase bleeding.
OTHER PRECAUTIONS
Smoking decreases blood flow in the skin and can slow the healing process. If you smoke, your doctor will recommend that you stop smoking before surgery and during recovery. Also make plans for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for the first night of your recovery
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT BEFORE THE PROCEDURE
Otoplasty can be done in a hospital or an outpatient surgical facility. Sometimes the procedure is done with sedation and local anaesthesia which numbs only part of your body. In other cases it may be recommended that you have general anaesthesia which renders you unconscious for your procedure
DURING THE PROCEDURE
Otoplasty techniques vary based on what kind of correction is needed. The specific technique your plastic surgeon chooses will determine the location of the incisions and the resulting scars.
YOUR DOCTOR MIGHT MAKE INCISIONS
• On the backs of your ears.
• Within the inner creases of your ears.
After making incisions your doctor might remove excess cartilage and skin. He or she will then fold the cartilage into the proper position and secure it with internal stitches. Additional stitches will be used to close the incisions. The procedure typically takes about two hours
02 AFTER THE PROCEDURE
Your ears will be covered in bandages for protection and support. You will likely feel some discomfort and itching. Take pain medication as recommended by your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you take pain medication and your discomfort increases. To keep pressure off your ears avoid sleeping on your side. Also try not to rub or place excessive force on the incisions. Consider wearing button-down shirts or shirts with loose fitting collars. Your doctor will remove your bandages a few days after the otoplasty. Your ears will likely be swollen and red. You will need to wear a loose headband that covers your ears at night for two to six weeks. This will help keep you from pulling your ears forward when rolling over in bed. Talk to your doctor about when or if your stitches will be removed. Some stitches dissolve on their own. Others must be removed in the doctor’s office in the weeks after the procedure. Ask your doctor when you can resume with daily activities such as bathing and physical activity.
Ready to become the best version of you?
After your bandages are removed you will notice an immediate change in the appearance of your ears. These changes are permanent. If you are not satisfied with your results check with your surgeon about the possibility of revision surgery.
VIVARI OVERNIGHT PACKAGES
OPTIONAL PACKAGES FOR HOTEL, RESTAURANT AND SPA
REFRESH
One night full board basis with nurse care cover, inclusive of 1 hour Classic Body Ritual at Vivari Spa.*
REVIVE
Two nights full board basis with nurse care cover, inclusive of 1 hour Classic Body Ritual at Vivari Spa.*
RENEW
Three nights full board basis with nurse care cover, inclusive of 1 hour Classic Body Ritual at Vivari Spa.*
* Please note that packages exclude incidentals like drinks and any additional spa treatments.