Otoplasty (surgery of protruding ears) aims to correct cartilage abnormalities in the ear auricle that are responsible for the protruding appearance of the ear.
The most common indications
- Excessive angle between the ear auricle and skull
- Excessive size of the concha cartilage
Before the procedure
A careful examination of the ears is carried out by the surgeon in order to analyse the adjustments to be made. The preoperative assessment is carried out in accordance with medical protocol and the procedure is generally performed under local anaesthesia.
DAY D – 10: Stop taking any medication containing aspirin or any anti-inflammatory medication.
The procedure
Average duration: between 1 hour and 1 hour 30.
The incisions are made in the natural fold behind the ear to loosen the skin and access the cartilage. The cartilage is then reshaped to improve the natural contour and thus “pin back” the ear. An elastic bandage is applied around the head.
After the procedure
The pain is usually moderate. The bandage is removed around the 7th day after the procedure. A support bandage will then have to be worn at night for about a week. An oedema (swelling) and ecchymoses (bruises) may appear, but this is only temporary.
The result
A term of 1 to 2 months is necessary to appreciate the result of a protruding ear surgery, the time it takes for the tissues to regain their suppleness and for the swelling to disappear. After this period, only the scars will still be slightly pinkish before fading.