What is Otoplasty?
How Cosmetic Ear Surgery Is Done
There are several ways the ear can be reshaped. One involves cutting out the cartilage, which is the main structural component of the ear. Another involves folding and stitching the cartilage instead of cutting it away.
In either case, Dr. Fouda Neel will begin by making a small cut at the back of your ear. This will allow access to the cartilage for the necessary procedure. After the surgery is complete, the surgeon will close the cuts with stitches.
What to Expect and How to Prepare for Cosmetic Ear Surgery
The surgery will last about one to two hours, depending on how complex the procedure for your case is. It may take longer than three hours if the procedure you need is very involved. Ask your surgeon for details about what your case requires.
If it is for yourself, Dr. Fouda Neel probably will use local anesthesia with a sedative. A child will likely receive general anesthesia (be put to sleep) to ensure that he or she cannot move around during the operation.
People getting general anesthesia cannot eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery or the morning of the surgery. The last meal the night before should be very light.
Most otoplasties are done in the surgeon’s office or in an outpatient facility. On the day of the surgery, wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Avoid wearing a shirt with a collar. It’s also a good idea to wear a shirt with buttons so that you do not have to pull it over your head.
Plan for a friend to drive you home and stay with you the first night. Sometimes, in the case of a child, the doctor will prefer that the child stay in the hospital one night. If you are undergoing a more complex procedure as an adult, you also may need to stay in the hospital overnight.
Cosmetic Ear Surgery Recovery
You should plan to stay home at least one week after the surgery. Children should stay home from school for at least one week.
Your head will be bandaged before you are sent home. It’s very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions on how to handle the bandage to ensure a smooth recovery.
Dr.Fouda Neel will tell you how long you will need to wear the bandage and how to manage it while you sleep. You likely will have to wear it for at least three days. When you have the bandage removed, your surgeon will provide you with a headband-type dressing. He or she may want you to wear this for up to three weeks to promote proper healing.
If you have stitches that need to be taken out, your surgeon will do this about one week after the surgery.
Expect scars, which will likely fade over time.
Complications and Side Effects of Cosmetic Ear Surgery
There are risks with any surgery. More uncommon complications with otoplasty can include infection or blood clots.
Complications are rare and most people are extremely satisfied with the results. You should expect to experience pain and swelling, but in some cases your surgeon will prescribe a painkiller or a prescription antibiotic as a preventive measure.
Contact Dr. Fouda Neel immediately if you develop fever, experience excessive bleeding or swelling, or have any trauma to your surgical site.
About Dr. Fouda Neel
Board-certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, Dr. Fouda Neel completed his training in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery at the prestigious McGill University training program in Montreal. Subsequently, He enhanced his expertise by pursuing three different fellowships in facial and breast aesthetic surgery.
He offers a full range of plastic surgery options for facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement, body contouring, and skin renewal, as well as a number of non-surgical cosmetic enhancement treatments. Dr. Fouda Neel is an Assistant professor at McGill University and is an Attending staff at McGill University Health Center.
