What it is This is surgery which ‘pins back’ or reduces the size of your ears. You might consider otoplasty if you think your ears stick out too much, or if you have a condition like lop or shell ear where the ear folds never developed properly.
What it involves Cuts are made in your ears, and the ear cartilage is reshaped. This would normally be done with a local anaesthetic and sedation. Otoplasty takes 2-3 hours. The post operative dressing is an important part of the surgery as it helps to make your ears heal into the right shape.
Questions to ask Will I have to stay in hospital overnight? No. As there is no general anaesthetic you can usually go home the same day. Although you still need to wear the dressing, you will probably be ok to go back to work in about 4 or 5 days.
Can my child have this done? Yes, from the age of four. Some doctors believe the earlier your child has this done the better, as it helps to prevent the school bullying associated with looking ‘different’.
Things to look out for Even if you only have a problem with one ear, usually the surgery is done on both to ensure an even effect.
Children often have general anaesthetic with otoplasty.
Does it hurt? Typically otoplasty isn’t painful, but it will leave you with hot and throbbing ears for several days. Scarring is minimal.
