Our Summary

This research paper is about the various surgical techniques that have been developed over the past century to correct protruding ears, a condition that can cause self-consciousness and social difficulties. Over 200 different methods have been invented, all involving different combinations of making a cut behind the ear, scoring the cartilage, and placing stitches in specific locations to recreate the natural fold of the ear and correct its angle. In the past 20 years, a new technique involving the use of tissue flaps, known as fascial flaps, has become popular in this type of ear surgery. The paper provides a detailed review of the different ways these tissue flaps can be created and used in ear surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What are some of the methods used to correct prominent ear deformity?
  2. What is the role of fascial flap techniques in otoplasty?
  3. How have surgical techniques for otoplasty evolved over time?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about otoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications. This may include wearing a headband or bandage as directed, avoiding activities that could put pressure on the ears, and keeping the surgical site clean and dry. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for otoplasty are those with prominent or protruding ears, also known as “bat ears” or “lop ears”. This can be a congenital condition or the result of trauma. Otoplasty is often performed on children around the age of 5-6 years old, as this is when the ear is almost fully developed and surgery can be more effective. However, otoplasty can also be performed on adults who are unhappy with the appearance of their ears.

Timeline

Before otoplasty:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations for the surgery and to determine if they are a good candidate for otoplasty.
  2. Pre-operative assessment: The surgeon evaluates the patient’s ear anatomy and overall health to ensure they are prepared for surgery.
  3. Surgical planning: The surgeon develops a personalized surgical plan based on the patient’s goals and anatomy.
  4. Pre-operative instructions: The patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including avoiding certain medications and foods.

After otoplasty:

  1. Surgery: The patient undergoes otoplasty, during which the surgeon uses various techniques to reshape the ears and correct any deformities.
  2. Recovery: The patient experiences some swelling, bruising, and discomfort following surgery, which typically resolves within a few weeks.
  3. Follow-up appointments: The patient returns to the surgeon for follow-up appointments to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns.
  4. Long-term results: Over time, the patient’s ears gradually take on their new shape, and the final results of otoplasty become more apparent.
  5. Maintenance: The patient may be advised to wear a headband or other supportive garment to help maintain the new shape of their ears and protect them during the healing process.

Overall, the timeline for otoplasty can vary depending on the individual patient and their specific circumstances, but typically involves a period of preparation, surgery, recovery, and follow-up care to achieve the desired results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  2. How long is the recovery period after otoplasty surgery?

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

  4. How many otoplasty surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?

  5. Will I need to wear any special garments or bandages after the surgery?

  6. How noticeable will the scars be after the surgery?

  7. What results can I realistically expect from otoplasty surgery?

  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?

  9. How should I prepare for otoplasty surgery, both physically and mentally?

  10. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or attend follow-up appointments?

Reference

Authors: Tas S. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2018 Jun 13;38(7):695-704. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjx254. PMID: 29490006