Otoplasty at a glance
Duration
1 hour
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic
Hospital Stay
Daycase with
no overnight stay
Downtime
1-2 weeks
Exercise
After 4 weeks
Results
2 – 3 weeks
Full Recovery
6 – 9 months
Cost
Consultation £100. Procedure from £5,500
What is Ear Pinning Surgery?
Otoplasty, pinnaplasty, or cosmetic ear surgery is a procedure performed
to decrease the prominence of your ears. This is a very common cosmetic procedure that alters the projection of the ears so they are positioned
closer to the head and are no longer sticking out.
Other procedures include changing the shape and size of the ears, or correcting misshapen ears due to an injury or birth defect.
To discuss Otoplasty with British Face Clinic call us on 07590817036.
About Otoplasty
Why Undergo Otoplasty?
Patients with over projected ears often feel self-conscious about how their ears look. To compensate, patients will often adjust their hair to cover the ears whilst those with long hair may refrain from wearing their hair up.
By undergoing ear correction surgery the patient regains their confidence, which in turn improves their self-esteem.
Mr Supriya can also discuss altering the size and shape of the ear by reducing the ear lobe. Patients with large or misshapen ears can also experience low self esteem which is regained through corrective surgery.
How ear surgery works
- Mr Supriya performs Classical Otoplasty under a local anaesthetic, by making a hidden cut behind the ear. Through this cut, depending on the individual requirement, excess cartilage is removed and sutured back to improve the ear’s appearance and symmetry.
- You can look at the appearance and positioning of your ear whilst on the operating table before final closure; this is a key benefit and ensures Mr Supriya can make any desired alterations before concluding the procedure.
- Your ears will be bandaged with a dressing in and over the operated part. The bandage is typically removed after 4 (four) days, and you will be required to wear a headband for the following week. The dressing and sutures are removed after 7 – 10 days.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of ear surgery?
Advantages
- Lifelong results
- Self-confidence is restored
- We can achieve significant changes to the ear’s appearance
Disadvantages
- You need to wear a head bandage for 2 (two) weeks
- Your ear can be sore and tender during the first week
- Once the cartilage is removed it cannot be restored
How do I prepare for ear surgery?
Our pre-operative guide helps ensure you get the best results from your otoplasty surgery.
Taking Arnica tablets for 1 week before and 1 week after surgery can help reduce bruising and swelling.
Do not take aspirin or any drug that increases bleeding 2 (two) weeks before your surgery. If in doubt call our office. Also avoid herbal products such as Gingko, Garlic, or Ginseng. All of these products can be resumed 2 (two) weeks after surgery.
If you take daily medications (for example: for your heart, blood pressure, etc.) you can continue to take them as you would but only with small sips of water to swallow them.
The night before and the morning of your surgery wash your face, body, and hair with an antibacterial soap. Baby shampoo can also be used.
Remind your doctor and staff of any special concerns or conditions.
Do not wear any skin products, moisturizers, makeup, lipstick, eyeliner, hair spray, nail polish or fragrances from the neck up.
Patients with long hair should wear it back and tied up and should bring some hair clips on the day.
Wear loose clothing, sweats or PJ’s and avoid wearing pull over tops (button-up or zip-up shirts).
You need to have someone to take you home following surgery and to stay with you. The length of time you need a caretaker is very individual, but we recommend for at least the first 24-48 hours.
What result can I expect?
As part of your consultation, Mr Supriya will discuss in detail what your goals are and will develop a treatment plan with you to meet your expectations.
As the surgery is performed under a local anaesthetic, patients can see the results mid procedure before the bandage and dressings are applied. Pinnaplasty is a relatively straightforward procedure with great impact. There is a very low revision rate with Otoplasty as patients are generally very happy with the results.
What is the cost of Otoplasty?
Otoplasty Recovery Timeline
1st day post op
1 week post op
It can take a few months for swelling to disappear and for patients to regain feeling in their ears. Patients are asked to continue to wear a headband at night for at least 2 (two) weeks after their bandages are removed.
Full recovery
It can take a few months for swelling to disappear and for patients to regain feeling in their ears. Patients are asked to continue to wear a headband at night for at least 2 (two) weeks after their bandages are removed.
Ear surgery risks
- Infection
- Bleeding and hematoma
- Skin discolouration or partial necrosis
- Tender points / suture extrusion
- Minor asymmetry between the ears
Tips for a Healthy Recovery
Here are some helpful hints for a healthy recovery.
- Ice or cold compresses can be used for the first 72 hours after surgery as it helps reduce swelling. Do not put bare ice on skin, always use paper towels or a wash cloth to protect skin from freezing or burns.
- Plan your recovery time smartly. Depending on the type of surgery, recovery time could range from a few days to a few weeks. Keep this in mind as it affects your work, family, and social schedules after surgery.
- Be realistic in your expectations. Let’s face it, you’re going to look worse before getting better. Just about all types of cosmetic surgery procedures involve bruising and swelling. Your real results won’t reveal themselves for a few days (or longer) so don’t panic. Let the natural healing process take place. If you suspect a problem, see your surgeon.
- Arrange for care for the initial 48 – 72 hours after surgery. Even though you may believe you can resume your normal routines, having someone there to assist you will bring peace of mind and allow the healing process to occur normally and with less disruption.
- Keep your head and neck elevated for a few days. This will help reduce swelling and speed the recovery process without compromising the results.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Use sun-block with proper UV protection to protect your skin.
- After surgery you will have open wounds and it is important not to expose these areas to sources of infection. Please do not hug or sleep with pets, sit in hot tubs, swim in ponds or lakes or otherwise expose yourself to germs.
- Consider taking Arnica tablets 1 (one) week before and 1 (one) week after surgery. This may help reduce swelling.
- Rehydrate your body often. Surgery of any kind can reduce fluids in your body. Drinking water frequently will help replenish these lost body fluids. Also, eat lightly for the first few days and only food that is easy to swallow and digest
