Otoplasty Adelaide

(Ear Pinning)

Otoplasty

Otoplasty surgery, colloquially referred to as ear pinning or ear reshaping, specifically addresses aesthetic concerns with the ears. Some patients would like to change the shape of their ears or reduce the protrusion of them.
The otoplasty procedure can be performed on younger patients coinciding with the time children start school. At this age, the ear has grown sufficiently to allow accurate correction.

The most common reasons for ear surgery include the following:

Protruding ears. This is the most common reason behind the otoplasty procedure. Ears are repositioned back to the sides of the head.

Ears that lack folds or fold over on top. Dr Cleland can change the shape of the ears so they have folds.

Ears that are a different size or shape. All ears have some degree of asymmetry however when this is pronounced it can bother some patients and they wish to undergo surgery so the ears are closer in shape and size. A variety of otoplasty techniques can be employed and will depend on the exact nature of the concern.

Earlobe repair, reduction and reconstruction. Dr Cleland repairs torn earlobes, a problem frequently seen with trauma to a pierced earlobe. Dr Cleland also offers surgical options for patients who have stretched or gauged their earlobes with spacers and wish to have this corrected. Similarly overly large earlobes which can occur with aging may be reduced surgically.

OTOPLASTY FAQ

HOW LONG IS THE OTOPLASTY SURGERY TIME?

The procedure typically takes between 1-3 hours. Surgery can take longer in cases where more reconstruction is needed.

WHAT ANESTHESIA IS USED FOR OTOPLASTY SURGERY?

General anaesthesia. For minor adjustments, local anaesthesia +/- mild sedation will be used. Dr Cleland will ensure you are comfortable through every stage of the process.

WILL I NEED A HOSPITAL STAY?

A typical otoplasty is performed as day surgery in a private hospital. Minor procedures such as earlobe reduction can be performed in-clinic.

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED DURING SURGERY?

Dr Cleland will use a surgical technique specific to your areas of concern. For ear pinning, the ear will be repositioned back closer to the head to reduce its prominence. In some cases, it may be necessary to fold, incise or remove small amounts of ear cartilage in order to create an ear fold.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER SURGERY?

Patients can expect to feel some aching and discomfort in the ears. There may also be some swelling, redness and altered sensation. Patients should rest well after surgery and manage discomfort with pain medications and ice packs, as needed.

AVERAGE RECOVERY TIME FOR OTOPLASTY SURGERY

Patients are usually able to return to work or school from 2 weeks post-surgery and will be fully recovered from the surgery within three months.

WHAT KIND OF SCARRING WILL I HAVE?

All surgical procedures will result in some type of scarring. For ear pinning, Dr Cleland makes the incisions behind the ear. Scars are typically discrete.

WHEN ARE RESULTS NOTICEABLE?

Results will be noticeable right away after your surgery. However, bandages will cover your ears after surgery. Once the postoperative swelling has reduced, you’ll be able to better see the results of your surgery. Most post-operative swelling is reduced after a month of recovery. The new look of your ears will become more apparent day by day, with the reduction of the swelling.

WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS OF OTOPLASTY?

Even with a highly skilled surgeon, there is always the risk for complications with any type of surgical procedure. The below risks are rare and are listed to inform you, not scare you. During a consultation Dr Cleland will discuss your medical history, current health status/medications and the surgical risks in general and also specific to you. It is then your decision to weigh up the risk vs benefit of proceeding with surgery.
General risks relating to surgery and anaesthesia are: Infection, bleeding that may require a return to the operating room, lung collapse, heart attack or stroke, blood clot, pain, scarring, prolonged healing, further surgery, death.
Specific risks relating to otoplasty surgery are: Infection of the wound or ear cartilage, change in sensation of the ear, abnormal scar formation, unsatisfactory cosmetic appearance, asymmetry, reoccurrence of the deformity, hearing loss.

WHAT KIND OF POST-OP FOLLOW-UP WILL I NEED?

The needs of each patient can vary. Typically speaking, we will see you at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months or as required if there are complications.