Otoplasty is the surgery that is performed to correct the defects in the ear flaps (ears) or the deformities concerning the areas of the propeller of the Anthelica and the lobe. The otoplasty is rarely done to reconstruct the fin when completely absent. The most common cause of otoplasty is the Afestota ota (pop ears). Ears are one of the first things anyone notices. If these are not symmetrical or exhibit imperfections then the look focuses entirely on them and ignores the remaining features. People who face an aesthetic problem concerning the ears are characterized by low self-confidence and reduced sociability.
Afestota Ota and Otoplasty
The angle considered acceptable between fin and head is from 20 to 30 degrees. If the angle formed exceeds this size then we have the phenomenon of the afestothe ear. The intervention involves the overwhelming majority of young boys who carry it out before entering the classroom. The girls hide the problem by covering their ears with long hair and usually decide to move on to Otoplasty later.
Otoplasty: From what age can you take the procedure?
Otoplasty is the only plastic medicine surgery that can be performed by children from the age of six years. This is because the growth of the ears at this age is completed at a rate of 80%. The aesthetic problem of the Afestois is perceived from the first day of birth of the child. Parents who are alarmed decide to submit their child to this intervention to avoid as bad as possible the negative comments and teasing that may create trauma to their child by leading it to introversion and isolation.
As far as adults are concerned, there is no age limit whenever they decide they can do otoplasty to get rid of this unsightly problem.
Otoplasty: The first visit to the clinic
In case you are an adult the plastic surgeon will discuss with you the reason you want to do otoplasty in order to determine whether you have realistic expectations for the result and whether you are characterized by mental maturity. He will note your medical history and make the necessary measurements to record the exact size of the problem. Finally you will pull the required photos and after discussing with you all the details will set the date to be held the otoplasty.
What kind of tests will be needed before otoplasty?
The examinations that will be performed before Otoplasty are the usual before each procedure for preventive reasons: electrocardiogram and general blood tests.
How long does otoplasty last and what type of anesthesia is required?
The duration depends on the size and type of the problem. But it usually doesn’t exceed two hours. If Otoplasty is performed in children aged six to fifteen years, then the type of anesthesia preferred is the general one in order for the child not to be traumatized by the experience of surgery. If it is carried out by persons over 15 years old, the local anesthesia is chosen with intoxication.
Otoplasty: Analytical surgery for the correction of afestotoplasis
In essence, the problem of the Afestois is due to the hypoplasia of the Anthelica and arises due to genetic predisposition, that is, there is someone in the wider family who is facing the same problem. The technique that will be followed by the plastic surgeon depends on the size of the patient’s problem. But there are some common elements:
Initially carefully designed the points that require aesthetic correction. The incision is made on the posterior side of the ear, in the aspect that exists so that it cannot be made visible. The excess skin is removed and the cartilage is formed Inthelica. The flap is stapled with a special technique (percutaneous sutures) which does not allow palpation
Otoplasty: the course after surgery
After the operation, if it was performed with local anesthesia and intoxication, you return home and you do not have to stay in the hospital. However, if you have a general anesthesia, you will be out of the hospital the next day after your doctor directs you to the specific behavior you should adopt. It is imperative to wear an elastic bandage, which will be removed after a week and replaced by a thinner one which you should wear for a few more days. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs in order to avoid the possibility of infection and minimize swelling. Until the stitches are absorbed (about 12 days) you will visit at least twice the infirmary for observation.
Otoplasty: How many days will I return to my daily activities?
From the early days you can do light housework as long as you show proper attention. You should not expose yourself to sunlight or exercise for about a month. If you are not bothered to wear a bandage you can return to work after a week, otherwise after 12 to 14 days when the bandage has been removed and wear a special elastic ribbon only during Overnight.
How painful is otoplasty?
Otoplasty is one of the most painless plastic surgery surgeries. The pain is completely appeused with mild analgesics and the patient simply feels a slight discomfort and perhaps some numbness due to the pressure exercised by the elastic bandage in the area.
Otoplasty: What complications may there be?
If the plastic surgeon has the required specialization, complications are practically impossible. Rarely there may be certain complications such as the occurrence of hematomas, mild bleeding or the formation of inflammation which are fully manageable with appropriate medical intervention.
Otoplasty: Results
Once the second elastic bandage is removed, about the twelfth day after Otoplasty, although the ears are still swollen (puffy) The difference is evident. As the swelling subsides, the appearance of the ears gradually improves. The definitive result is visible after about 3 months and is really impressive.