Detached ears
Protruding ears, often a source of aesthetic and social embarrassment from childhood onwards, are generally a congenital feature.Otoplasty, a light and effective surgical procedure, can now correct this peculiarity with very few complications and excellent results. Usually, this malformation affects both ears, but it can happen that only one ear is affected.
The benefits of otoplasty
- Permanently corrects protruding ears
- Natural, harmonious results
- Reduces complexes and improves confidence
- Discreet, often invisible scars
- Fast, safe intervention
- Suitable from age 6 for children and adults
- Very low complication rate
Frequently asked questions
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty is the surgical procedure used to reattach ears that are originally protruding. We speak of protruding ears when the angle between the auricle and the skull is greater than 30°, or when the distance between the skull and the helix is greater than 20 mm. The ears may also be disproportionate to other facial features, although the distance is close to the limit.
What are the solutions for correcting protruding ears?
- Temporary solutions
There are temporary solutions to correct protruding ears, such as corrective bands or headbands, which hold the ears closer to the head. However, this solution is not very effective or long-lasting. Similarly, ear splints can be used to reposition the ears, especially for mild cases, but the method remains less effective than surgery. Two interesting alternatives are tensor threads, used to reposition protruding ears, and Earfold implants, inserted through an incision under the skin to hold the folded cartilage in place. This procedure is not suitable for all types of correction, and is less effective in the long term. - Permanent solutions
Surgical procedures are the most effective way of correcting protruding ears.Otoplasty is the most common solution. Itreshapes or repositions the earcartilage to reduce the distance between the skull and the ear. It also involves stitches to fix the cartilage in the desired position and, in some cases, removal ofpart of the concha cartilage. When the antihelical fold, a natural crease located at the outer part of the ear, is absent or only slightly marked, it can be created or accentuated during otoplasty. All these techniques, performed under local or general anesthesia, can be used to permanently correct protruding ears.
At what age is otoplasty recommended?
To undergo otoplasty, the ear cartilage must be sufficiently mature, which is why the procedure can be recommended as early as six years of age. The cartilage is then mature, but also flexible enough to be easily reshaped. The cartilage is more rigid in adolescents and adults, making the operation slightly more complex, although the results are just as satisfactory. Early otoplasty can also help children avoid teasing and potential bullying at school, while improving their confidence. Otoplasty is therefore a feasible procedure once the cartilage is sufficiently mature, and is recommended from an early age. For early intervention, however, it is imperative that the child is able to express his or her desire to have the operation.
What are the possible risks and complications of otoplasty?
Otoplasty, as with any surgical procedure, carries certain risks. Infections can occur, although asepsis standards are very strict and Claris Clinic surgeons use state-of-the-art equipment. Poor healing can also occur, necessitating further treatment. Hematomas may also occur, but this is rare. Finally, results may be unsatisfactory, due to asymmetry or too slight a correction. A prior consultation with the surgeon is therefore very important, as it will enable you to set your expectations in terms of results. Note, however, that the success rate of otoplasty remains very high, and potential complications extremely rare. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s recommendations to limit the risk of poor healing after the operation.
What is the cost of otoplasty in Belgium?
Reimbursement for otoplasty depends on the nature of the problem: generally speaking, if the procedure is performed for purely aesthetic reasons, it is deemed non-essential and is not reimbursed (except by certain mutual or supplementary insurance companies). If, on the other hand, the procedure is carried out for medical reasons, such as recurrent infection, pain or trauma, it may be partially reimbursed by the health insurance company.
For children up to the age of 16, partial coverage of otoplasty is possible. This must be justified by the prevention of psychological problems such as bullying or low self-esteem, under the medical advice of an ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist or plastic surgeon. This must first be checked with your surgeon.
The price of otoplasty differs according to the type of anesthesia required. At Claris Clinic, the price is €1,695 for local anesthesia and €2,295 for general anesthesia. This fee includes the cost of the anesthesia consultation, the cost of the anesthesia itself, and post-operative follow-up.
