Prominent ear among the public is often mistakenly evaluated with the expression big ear. However, the real reason is that some parts that should be curved are straight and therefore the ear is curved forward by making a more angle with the head, that is, the ear is more visible when viewed from the front. Ear aesthetics are performed to correct the prominent ear condition.
Otoplasty is usually performed to bring the prominent ears closer to the head, to shape their missing folds or to shrink large ears. This operation is usually performed from the age of 6. In this surgery, the ear folds are made more suitable with stitches, with the removal of cartilage tissue when necessary, or without removing the cartilage by entering from behind the ear, and the ear is moved to a position suitable for the head base.
Prominent ear aesthetics (otoplasty) is usually applied under local anaesthesia. General anaesthesia can also be applied in the pediatric age group and due to the patient’s preference. Patients undergoing local anesthesia are discharged on the same day. The operation takes 1-2 hours. Complicated cases may take longer. The surgery technique may change depending on the problem in the ear. Generally, the cartilage tissue is reached with the incision made from the back of the ear. Sometimes sections are removed from the cartilage tissue or the ear is shaped with the help of permanent stitches without removing the tissue. Excess skin behind the ear, if present, will also be removed. In this case, the surgery is terminated by placing the drains under the skin.
Patients can get up and go home a few hours after surgery. The patient’s ears will be wrapped at the end of the surgery to facilitate shaping and recovery. There may be pain for few days, but this is easily relieved with pain relievers. After 1- 3 days, the bandages are removed, a headband is recommended to be used continuously for the first 2-3 weeks and then only at night.
Using this type during daytime will help keep the shape of the ear better. Stitches are usually removed within a week or self dissolving stitches can be used. Any activity that will bend the ear should be avoided for the first 2 months. Most adults can return to work within about 10 days. Children can go to school after about seven days, but need to be careful in activities.
