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Protruding ear correction |
General informationMany people have protruding ears, which result from inherent abnormalities in the shape of the cartilage from which the ear trumpet is formed. The problems can be corrected by plastic surgery. The procedure can be carried out from the age of about five or six - the time of life when a child is first likely to become aware that his/her ears protrude and/or be confronted with negative comments. In many cases, a child will simply learn to live with such problems. However, it is increasingly common that a decision is taken to modify the ears later in life.
The procedureThe medical term for protruding ear correction is otoplasty ('oto' is a prefix meaning 'relating to the ear', and 'plasty' is derived from plastic surgery). The procedure lasts about an hour. Protruding ears can be corrected under local anaesthetic. However, where children are concerned, the operation is normally performed under general anaesthetic. A cut is made at the back of the ear, then the cartilage folded over using a special technique. Finally, a strip of skin is removed from the back of the ear and the wound closed using dissolvable stitches.
RisksProtruding ear correction entails the risks associated with any form of surgery. Postoperative bleeding and infection are both possible. Fortunately, such complications are rare in the extreme.
OutcomeEar corrections normally work out well. However, cartilage is a stubborn type of tissue and sometimes reassumes its original shape. It is not therefore possible to give a 100 per cent guarantee that the ears will remain straight and entirely symmetrical. In rare cases, further corrective surgery may be required, but even then there is no guarantee that the ears will ultimately be entirely symmetrical.
FinallyWhen considering ear correction, it is important that your expectations of what can be achieved are realistic. You may expect a clear improvement, but not perfection. Perfect symmetry is almost impossible to achieve. The procedure will result in a scar behind the ear. However, its position means it will not be conspicuous. If, having read this information, you have questions about protruding ear correction, one of our plastic surgeons will be happy to discuss the issues in the context of a consultation. It can be helpful to write your questions down before coming to see the surgeon.
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Plastic surgery
