EAR SURGERY Bluffton
Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears.
For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.
If you’re considering ear surgery for yourself or your child, this information will give you a basic understanding of the procedure-when it can help, how it’s performed, and what results you can expect. It can’t answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please be sure to ask your doctor if there is anything you don’t understand about the procedure.
Are you self-conscious of your ears?
Are you self-conscious of your ears? Do you feel like they stick out too much and make you look unprofessional or unattractive? If so, Weniger Plastic Surgery can help. We offer ear plastic surgery to help reduce the size and prominence of your ears, giving you a more confident appearance. Our procedures are minimally invasive and produce natural-looking results. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if ear plastic surgery is right for you.
Weniger Plastic Surgery is a leading provider of ear plastic surgery in the Bluffton area. We offer minimally invasive procedures that produce natural-looking results. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if ear plastic surgery is right for you.
The Surgery
Ear surgery usually takes about two to three hours, although complicated procedures may take longer. The technique will depend on the problem.
With one of the more common techniques, the surgeon makes a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. He or she will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, the surgeon will remove a larger piece of cartilage to provide a more natural-looking fold when the surgery is complete.
Another technique involves a similar incision in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear without removing cartilage.
In most cases, ear surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance.
If you are interested in receiving additional information or setting up an initial consultation, please contact Weniger Plastic Surgery at (843) 757-0123.
Getting Back to Normal
Adults and children are usually up and around within a few hours of surgery, although you may prefer to stay overnight in the hospital with a child until all the effects of general anesthesia wear off.
The patient’s head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following surgery to promote the best molding and healing. The ears may throb or ache a little for a few days, but this can be relieved by medication.
Within a few days, the bulky bandages will be replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a headband. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s directions for wearing this dressing, especially at night.
Stitches are usually removed, or will dissolve, in about a week.
Any activity in which the ear might be bent should be avoided for a month or so. Most adults can go back to work about five days after surgery. Children can go back to school after seven days or so if they’re careful about playground activity. You may want to ask your child’s teacher to keep an eye on the child for a few weeks.
Your New Look
Most patients, young and old alike, are thrilled with the results of ear surgery. But keep in mind, the goal is an improvement, not perfection. Don’t expect both ears to match perfectly-perfect symmetry is both unlikely and unnatural in ears. If you’ve discussed the procedure and your expectations with the surgeon before the operation, chances are, you’ll be quite pleased with the result.
A Consultation is a Great Place to Start
A consultation is designed to fully educate you about ear surgery in a non-pressured environment and will include:
- A discussion of your goals and an evaluation of your individual case
- The options available in breast augmentation surgery
- The likely outcomes of breast augmentation and any risks or potential complications
- The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon