Otoplasty is cosmetic ear reshaping or reconstructive surgery of the visible part of the outer ear also known as the auricle. This can be done to correct a structural abnormality or to improve the appearance of the ears.

Why have Otoplasty

Although the function of the auricle is minor, it greatly contributes to a person’s appearance.

The auricle is made up of folds of cartilage covered in skin. It starts to develop before birth and continues years after you’ve been born. Sometimes the auricle can fail to develop properly and the individual can choose to undergo Otoplasty in Dubai to correct the position, size, and shape of the ear.

Some people may feel that their ears are too prominent which can cause them embarrassment and psychological distress. They too can opt for otoplasty.

It is also common for guardians and parents to seek otoplasty for their children if they notice any ear defects as this can build the self-esteem of the child.

Types of Otoplasty

There are several techniques of otoplasty and they include:

• Ear pinning. This otoplasty technique is performed on individuals whose ears prominently stick out from the sides of their heads. It involves drawing the ears closer to the head.
• Ear augmentation. This is done on people with small ears or ears that haven’t completely developed. Individuals who are experiencing this can opt to undergo this otoplasty technique to increase the size of their outer ear.
• Ear reduction. The ears can also be larger than usual and this is known as macrotia. Individuals with macrotia can opt to undergo otoplasty to reduce the size of their outer ears.

Good Candidate for Cosmetic Ear Surgery

Otoplasty is usually performed on individuals whose ears:

• Are smaller or larger than normal
• Protrude from the head
• Are abnormally shaped due to trauma, injury, or structural defects from birth

The ideal candidates for otoplasty are individuals who are:

• In good overall health with no underlying medical condition that can increase the risk of complications or affect the healing process
• Aged 5 years or older because at this point the outer ear has reached 90% of its adult size

Individuals who also have had otoplasty performed in the past but were not happy with the results can choose to have another procedure.

If you are thinking of undergoing otoplasty, it is important to work with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, such as our Consultant Plastic Surgeons at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery in Dubai who are trained and skilled in various cosmetic procedures including otoplasty.

Before the procedure:

Consultation

Before undergoing the procedure, you will have a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is an expert in otoplasty. During the consultation, you will discuss your concerns and goals, review your medical history, your Plastic Surgeon will evaluate the size, shape, and placement of your ears, he/she will take you through the procedure, the associated risks, and the recovery process. After this, you can ask any questions that you might be having.

The Procedure

Otoplasty is done as an outpatient procedure and depending on the complexity and specifics of the procedure, it can take between one to three hours. Local anesthesia and a sedative are usually used for adults and older children while general anesthesia is used for younger children.

The surgical technique used depends on the type of otoplasty one is undergoing. But generally, otoplasty surgery involves the Plastic Surgeon making an incision either inside the folds of the ear or on the back of the ear. He/she will then manipulate the ear tissue which can include removal of the skin or cartilage, folding, or shaping of the cartilage with permanent stitches or grafting cartilage to the ear. The incisions are finally closed with stitches.

Results and Recovery

The recovery process depends on the type of otoplasty one has undergone.

Dressings will be applied over the ears after the surgery and remain in place for several days. Once removed, the individual will be required to wear a protective headband over the ears at night for a couple of weeks.

In the first couple of days after the surgery, you may experience soreness, numbness, tingling, and bruising but these fade away with time.

During your recovery, you should avoid touching and scratching the ears, wearing clothes that need to be pulled over the ears, and sleeping in a position where you are resting on your ears.

To Know More

Would you like to understand what options are available for Otoplasty in Dubai? Meet one of our experts at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery for a personal consultation to develop a tailor-made plan for you. Contact us or Book an appointment and our patient care coordinators will identify the most suitable expert for you.