What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, or an ear job, is a surgical procedure designed to set prominent ears closer to the head, to improve their overall shape, or to reduce their size.
How does it work?
The surgeon makes a small incision on the back of the ear to expose the cartilage.
He will then fold the cartilage towards the head or, where a greater reduction is required, remove some of it, before inserting non-removable stitches to keep it in position.
How long does the procedure take?
An otoplasty typically takes from one to two hours.
What happens after surgery?
Recovery from ear surgery is very quick.
A large bandage need only be worn for the first few days, after which it will be replaced with a lighter dressing similar to a hair band.
This must be worn for the next two weeks or so but only at night.
Stitches are removed after a week and there is very little in the way of bruises or swelling.
How long before I can resume my normal activities?
You can return to work almost immediately, even the day after surgery if you wish.
However, extra care should be taken to avoid activities where the ear may be pulled or bent for the first month.