Our Summary

This paper investigates the complications that can arise after an otoplasty, a surgery to correct deformities or issues with the ears. The researchers looked at complications that occurred soon after the surgery (within 14 days) and those that occurred later on. They found that most people who needed a second surgery did so because they were unhappy with the cosmetic results of the first.

The study included 32 people who had the second surgery with the same doctor between 2015 and 2018. The patients were aged between 24 and 70 years old, and the researchers looked at the types of problems they had, such as the sutures (stitches) coming out, the ears looking asymmetrical, the original problem coming back, or pain and sensitivity behind the ear.

The main problems leading to a second surgery were the sutures coming out, the ears not looking symmetrical, the original problem reoccurring, and ongoing pain or sensitivity.

The researchers used a specific technique for the second surgery, involving a flap of tissue from behind the ear, which they found to be safe and straightforward. They found this technique worked well if the first surgery had involved preserving the ear cartilage. However, they were not sure how well it would work if the first surgery had involved reshaping the ear cartilage, as none of the patients in the study had this type of first surgery. This lack of information is seen as the main limitation of this research.

FAQs

  1. What are some of the complications that can arise after an otoplasty?
  2. What were the common reasons for patients needing a second otoplasty?
  3. What technique did the researchers use for the second surgery and under what conditions was it found to be most effective?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to carefully follow post-operative instructions to minimize the risk of complications. This includes keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities that could put pressure on the ears, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress. Additionally, it is important to communicate any concerns or issues with the doctor promptly to address them before they become more serious.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are typically recommended for otoplasty are those who have prominent ears that stick out too far from the head, have asymmetrical ears, have ear deformities, or have suffered trauma to the ears. Otoplasty can also be performed on children as young as five years old, as long as their ears have fully developed. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery and to discuss their concerns and goals with a qualified plastic surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

Timeline

Before otoplasty:

  1. Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss concerns with ear appearance.
  2. Pre-operative evaluation and discussion of surgical options.
  3. Patient undergoes otoplasty surgery to correct ear deformities or issues.

After otoplasty:

  1. Immediate post-operative care including bandaging and pain management.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress.
  3. Complications may arise within 14 days post-surgery, such as sutures coming out, asymmetrical ears, or pain/sensitivity.
  4. Some patients may require a second surgery if they are unhappy with the cosmetic results of the first.
  5. Second surgery may involve using a flap of tissue from behind the ear to address issues such as asymmetry or recurrence of the original problem.
  6. Follow-up care after the second surgery to monitor healing and ensure satisfactory results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of discomfort or pain after the surgery?

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

  4. What kind of scarring can I expect after the surgery, and is there anything I can do to minimize scarring?

  5. How long do the results of otoplasty typically last, and are there any long-term effects I should be aware of?

  6. How many otoplasty surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate with this procedure?

  7. Can you show me before and after photos of previous otoplasty patients you have treated?

  8. What is your approach to addressing any complications that may arise after the surgery?

  9. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow to ensure the best outcome?

  10. If I am not satisfied with the results of the surgery, what options do I have for revision surgery or other corrective measures?

Reference

Authors: Ersen B. Journal: Ann Plast Surg. 2020 Jan;84(1):20-23. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001939. PMID: 31232815