Otoplasty
- Related topics
- Contact
Plastic Surgery Queensland
Suite 2.01
Mater Private Clinic
550 Stanley Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101
Plastic Surgery Queensland
Gold Coast
109 W. Burleigh Road
Burleigh Waters QLD 4220
If you are concerned about the shape, size, or symmetry of your ears, you may consider discussing your options with a qualified medical practitioner. Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning surgery, is a procedure to correct prominent ears.
Otoplasty Brisbane
What is ear surgery?
When you have concerns about the shape of your ears, otoplasty may be a surgical procedure to consider.
The most common reasons for otoplasty are:
- Structural, cartilaginous or aesthetic concerns about the shape of your ears.
- Some individuals may have concerns about the shape or size of their ears and seek medical advice regarding surgical options.
During your consultation at my plastic surgery practice, we will discuss your concerns about size, shape and appearance. I will assess the relative degrees of alteration that would be appropriate. When you have had ear surgery before, we’ll discuss that too, as well as the risks and complications, medications, allergies, and expected recovery times after otoplasty.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
Otoplasty is an option for individuals with concerns about ear size or protrusion. A consultation with a qualified medical practitioner can help determine if this procedure is suitable for you. As children mature, the ears change shape and position. Children are usually suitable to have this surgery from the age of 5 but this can vary.
The most common type of ear surgery is ‘pinning’ which anchors the bowl of the ear back to your head using a variety of techniques. Scoring and permanent suture placement usually allow the cartilage to settle into the new position permanently after 3 months.
Reduction otoplasty may be an option for individuals concerned about the size of their ears, following consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. We remove excess skin and cartilage to reduce the size of your ear or lobule (lobe).
Both ears are operated on at the same time.
Where do you operate?
Otoplasty procedure explained by Brisbane plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj
Ear surgery: step by step
Anaesthetic
Otoplasty is day surgery under local or general anaesthetic.
Incisions
In general, incisions for otoplasty are made on the back surface of the ear.
Closing the incisions
When your ears are anchored in a natural narrowed position, we close the incisions.
Result
Afterwards, a garment or head-compression is worn for 2 weeks to protect the position of the ears. Results will gradually become apparent after the initial recovery period. Individual healing times may vary.
Your scars are located at the back of your ears.
About 60 to 90 minutes.
The best preparation is to stay fit and healthy, minimising alcohol intake and not smoking.
Otoplasty recovery explained by Brisbane plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj
Recovery after ear surgery
You will wear a garment or head compression for 2 weeks to protect the position of the ears.
Working, bathing, exercising, driving and sleeping on ears?
- Working is usually fine after 5 days.
- Bathing and showering are fine after 2 days.
- Driving is fine after 2 days.
- You can exercise after 2 weeks.
- Sleeping on ears after 2 weeks.
Otoplasty surgery risks
Risks and complications
The following risks are associated with otoplasty:
- Bleeding and infection are unlikely but can occur.
- Bleeding will require surgery but is very uncommon. When this happens, it’s within the first 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery.
Only 1 suture is removed, the remaining sutures are dissolvable.
Otoplasty Brisbane cost
What does the procedure cost?
Costs for otoplasty vary and can be discussed during a consultation, including any potential rebates for eligible patients.
There are many low-cost options both in Australia and overseas and great care should be taken when dealing with a surgeon who is not an ASPS / AHPRA / FRACS recognised Plastic Surgeon.
Unfortunately, as mentioned in an ABC Four Corners report, many patients confuse plastic surgeons with cosmetic surgeons but the training differs significantly.
Plastic surgeons undergo extensive training, including specialist qualifications in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. It is advisable to check a surgeon's qualifications and experience before proceeding with surgery.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
It’s also recommended to always seek second opinions if you have concerns. Ultimately you should feel comfortable with the plastic surgeon you are seeing.
There is a medical rebate for children under 18 years having otoplasty surgery.
About Dr Andrew Hadj, Plastic surgeon Brisbane
Plastic surgery is the ultimate expression of art and science
Is there any difference between a plastic and cosmetic surgeon
Finding the right surgeon for cosmetic procedures can be a daunting experience if you don’t know what to look for.
