When ears are abnormally big, or prominent, they can be the source of some serious embarrassment. Otoplasty, otherwise known as ear surgery, is the name for the procedure helping alleviate this concern. It is effective in correcting protruding, deformed and misshaped ears. If you are considering otoplasty surgery, Dr. Shree Harsh at Pinnacle Plastic Surgery and Women's Health Clinic can help you understand the procedure carefully and provide an expert opinion. In this article, we discuss how otoplasty works, who are ideal candidates for the surgery and the associated risks. Read on to know all about otoplasty and how to consult a doctor regarding this procedure.
Otoplasty is a procedure used to reshape, pin back, reduce or alter size of the ears. It can also be used to correct deformities of the ears. The procedure is also used to set prominent ears closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. Through otoplasty, individuals with protruding ears can find a great deal of relief in terms of aesthetic and emotional confidence. The procedure is not typically done on individuals below the age of 5.
When considering otoplasty, it’s important to understand its benefits and drawbacks. Generally speaking, ideal candidates are those who are healthy, emotionally stable and have realistic expectations with the procedure. Ideally, candidates should be over 5 years of age since cartilage at that age has matured enough to allow the ear tissue to be reshaped.
Dr. Shree Harsh is a renowned and experienced plastic surgeon in Lucknow. He has practiced cosmetic surgery for 30 years and has the expertise to perform otoplasty with impeccable results. He is renowned for his sympathetic attitude and a personalized, professional approach. He listens to the patient and works around each individual’s considerations for the procedure. Dr. Shree Harsh is devoted to ensuring all his patients have a pleasant, comfortable and safe healing and recovery process. His attention to detail and expertise sets him apart from other plastic surgeons in Lucknow.
The otoplasty procedure is done under general or local anesthesia, depending on the patient’s age. Otoplasty involves reshaping the ear cartilage in order to reposition the ears more suitably. Small incisions are made behind the ears and then the cartilage is sculpted to create the desired effect. After this, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and the procedure is completed in approximately 2 hours. The procedure can be done on both ears at once. Post-surgery, the ears are of course swollen and badly bruised. This should fade away in a few days.
Performed correctly, the patient should get the desired results and the ears will appear normal or rather, as desired. They will be symmetrical and be in a position closer to the head. As long as the patient follows the aftercare instructions and takes the prescribed medications, results from Otoplasty will remain permanent.
Patients should take ample rest and put an end to excessive activities or contact sports to let the ears heal in a proper way. Sutures and dressing should be removed after a week and can be done so by your doctor. The patient should experience a considerable decrease in discomfort after 5-7 days and swelling should reduce drastically in 1-2 weeks. In 10 days, the bruised and black spots will reduce considerably. Complete healing may take 1-3 weeks depending on lifestyle and the way the patient has responded to the surgery.
Though rare, risks, scarring and complications associated with Otoplasty include:
The cost of the procedure depends on the individual case and the facility one chooses. In Lucknow, otoplasty typically costs between 850 to 1600 dollars, not including the anesthesia fee, exam fees or pre-op tests. It’s important to consider the surgeon’s credentials and experience as well before making a decision.
Before heading to a consultation, it’s important to understand your cosmetic goals and expectations. It’s also helpful to prepare a list of prior medical history and of any medications that you are currently taking so that Dr. Shree Harsh can review it. Also, if possible, prepare a list of questions that you might have to ensure that all your doubts and queries are discussed and addressed before the procedure.
If you are interested in otoplasty, book a free consultation with Dr. Shree Harsh at Pinnacle Plastic Surgery and Women's Health Clinic. He will evaluate your case and answer all your queries regarding the procedure.
Book AppointmentDr. Shree Harsh is a board certified internationally trained Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon. He has been trained in the prestigious and historical department of Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery at G.M.C.Nagpur from where he completed his M.Ch. in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He cleared his D.N.B. in Plastic Surgery from the National Board of Examination, New Delhi. He was awarded the prestigious DAFPRS fellowship by the Dutch Association of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has been trained by Dr.Patrick L Tonnard and Dr.Alexis Verpaele at the MACS lift centre- Coupure Centrum in Ghent, Belgium in both Surgical and non Surgical Aesthetic Surgery procedures during his fellowship period. He is trained in oncoplastic breast reconstruction by DIEAP flap under Dr. Peter Vermeulen at OLV hospital at Alst, Belgium.