Our Summary

This research paper looks at the impact of ear surgery (otoplasty) on the quality of life of children with prominent ears, a fairly common birth defect. This condition can lead to low self-esteem, social isolation, and poor school performance. The study involved 70 patients who had undergone otoplasty between 2016 and 2018.

The researchers asked the children and their caregivers about the children’s quality of life, using two different survey tools. They also looked at surgical, demographic, and clinical data from the patients’ medical records.

The results showed that the majority of patients were boys, with the average age at surgery being just under 8 years old. The main reason for the surgery was dissatisfaction with the appearance of the ears. After surgery, the children’s reported quality of life was high, with an average score of 85.6% (according to the children) and 86.9% (according to the parents).

The researchers also found that the surgery improved the children’s quality of life, as indicated by a score of +20.5 on one of the survey tools. Moreover, they found that children who had been bullied and those whose parents had high expectations for a life change after surgery were more likely to report a higher quality of life after the surgery.

Finally, almost all (96%) parents said they would recommend the surgery to other children. The researchers concluded that ear surgery is a valid treatment option for children with prominent ears, as it improves not only the appearance of the ears but also the children’s overall quality of life.

FAQs

  1. What is the main reason children undergo otoplasty surgery?
  2. How does otoplasty impact the quality of life of children with prominent ears?
  3. Would parents recommend otoplasty surgery for other children with prominent ears?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. It is important to understand that otoplasty can improve the appearance of prominent ears, but it may not completely eliminate all concerns or insecurities. It is also important to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results.

Suitable For

Children with prominent ears, also known as bat ears or prominent auricles, are typically recommended for otoplasty. This procedure is often sought by parents and children who are experiencing negative psychological effects such as low self-esteem, social isolation, and bullying due to the appearance of the ears. Otoplasty can help improve the aesthetics of the ears and ultimately improve the overall quality of life for these patients.

Timeline

Before otoplasty:

  • Patient experiences aesthetic dissatisfaction with prominent ears
  • Patient may experience social isolation, low self-esteem, and diminished school performance
  • Patient and caregiver decide to undergo otoplasty surgery

After otoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes surgical procedure to correct prominent ears
  • Patient and caregiver complete Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory and Glasgow Children Benefit Inventory
  • Patient reports improvement in quality of life post-surgery
  • Caregivers also report improvement in patient’s quality of life
  • Factors such as bullying and high parental expectations for life change post-surgery predict higher quality of life improvement
  • Majority of caregivers would recommend otoplasty surgery to other children with prominent ears.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of otoplasty in children?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with otoplasty surgery?

  3. What is the recovery process like after otoplasty surgery?

  4. How long will it take for the final results of the otoplasty to be visible?

  5. Will the results of otoplasty be permanent?

  6. How will otoplasty affect my child’s quality of life, both physically and emotionally?

  7. Are there any alternative treatment options for prominent ears in children?

  8. How should I prepare my child for otoplasty surgery?

  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the otoplasty procedure?

  10. How many otoplasty surgeries have you performed on children, and what is your experience with this procedure?

Reference

Authors: Carvalho C, Marinho AS, Barbosa-Sequeira J, Correia MR, Banquart-Leitão J, Carvalho F. Journal: Acta Otorrinolaringol Esp (Engl Ed). 2023 Jul-Aug;74(4):226-231. doi: 10.1016/j.otoeng.2022.11.004. Epub 2022 Nov 23. PMID: 36427795