Our Summary

This research paper discusses a case of an 11-year-old child who developed abnormal scar tissue, known as keloids, after having surgery to correct protruding ears. Keloids can sometimes form after major skin cuts if the wound doesn’t heal properly. They can also be caused by things like friction and tension on a healing scar. In this case, the child had to wear a mask at school due to COVID-19 guidelines, and the ear loops of the mask rubbed against the area behind the ears where the surgery was done. This friction may have contributed to the development of the keloids. The study suggests that it’s important to consider things like this when planning aftercare for this kind of surgery, to help prevent keloid formation.

FAQs

  1. What are keloids and how do they form after otoplasty surgery?
  2. In the case of the 11-year-old child, what role did wearing a mask play in the development of keloids after otoplasty?
  3. How can aftercare be planned to prevent the formation of keloids after otoplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to avoid any activities or situations that could cause friction or tension on the healing scars behind the ears. This includes being cautious with wearing tight-fitting clothing or accessories that could rub against the ears, as well as being mindful of how masks or headbands may interact with the surgical site. Following post-operative care instructions closely and keeping the area clean and protected can help prevent complications like keloid formation.

Suitable For

Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is typically recommended for patients who have protruding or misshapen ears that may cause self-esteem issues or difficulty with hearing. Otoplasty can also be recommended for patients who have suffered trauma to the ears, such as a torn earlobe or other injuries that affect the appearance of the ears.

In some cases, otoplasty may be recommended for children who are born with congenital ear deformities, such as microtia or anotia. These conditions can affect the shape and size of the ears and may require surgical correction to improve hearing and overall appearance.

Overall, patients who are physically healthy, psychologically stable, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery are typically good candidates for otoplasty. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for otoplasty and to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure.

Timeline

Before otoplasty:

  • Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss the procedure and determine if they are a good candidate for otoplasty.
  • Pre-operative appointments and tests may be scheduled to ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery.
  • The patient undergoes otoplasty surgery, which typically takes 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
  • After the surgery, the patient may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.
  • The patient will need to wear a headband or bandage around the ears for a few days to help with healing and to protect the ears.

After otoplasty:

  • The patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and remove any stitches or bandages.
  • The patient may need to wear a headband or special ear protectors at night to prevent the ears from being pulled or bent while sleeping.
  • It is important for the patient to avoid strenuous activities and contact sports for several weeks to allow the ears to heal properly.
  • Over time, the swelling and bruising will gradually improve, and the final results of the otoplasty will become more apparent.
  • The patient should follow the surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  2. How long is the recovery period, and what can I expect during the healing process?

  3. Will I need to wear any special garments or bandages after the surgery, and for how long?

  4. What are the chances of developing keloids or abnormal scarring after otoplasty, and how can I minimize this risk?

  5. Are there any specific aftercare instructions I should follow to promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications?

  6. How soon after surgery can I resume normal activities, such as exercise and wearing glasses or hats?

  7. Will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery, and if so, how often should I schedule them?

  8. What results can I realistically expect from otoplasty, and are there any limitations or potential disappointments I should be aware of?

  9. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may be more suitable for my individual needs and goals?

  10. What is your experience and success rate with otoplasty procedures, and can you provide before-and-after photos of previous patients?

Reference

Authors: Hoch CC, Funk PF, Storck K, San Nicoló M, Jacobi C. Journal: Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2023 Jun 30;11(6):e5086. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000005086. eCollection 2023 Jun. PMID: 37396838