Ear correction: ear surgery

Ear Correction

Ear correction or otoplasty is the name for a number of operations to reshape the ear. This operation can be performed from the age of 6 years and upwards.

Ears that stick out too far are often the focus of ridicule. Children tease each other and can sometimes be extremely cruel. Adults may choose for this operation because they want to change their hairstyle, or just because it balances their facial appearance.

Ears and earlobes can also be reduced in size.

The operation

Each anatomical problem requires its own individual solution.

With prominent ears (bat ears) or with correction of the outer part of the ear a small incision is usually made, under a local anaesthetic, just behind the ear. This allows the surgeon to correct the position and the shape of the ear cartilage.

After the procedure you will need to wear an elastic bandage for a few days; with other ear or earlobe corrections it is usually not necessary. Two weeks later any swelling or bruising will disappear and you can resume all your usual sporting activities.

Length of the operation

Correction of the earlobes takes about 30 minutes. Ear correction takes between 1 and 2 hours. After the treatment you rest a while at the Wellness Kliniek. You can return home or to your hotel a few hours later.

Risks and complications

At the Wellness Kliniek ear operations are performed in the operating theatre. Even though the environment is sterile there is still a very small risk of infection. Post-operative bleeding is also possible. Just like most surgical procedures there is a risk of an allergic reaction. Sometimes the result is assymetrical, or the wound refuses to heal properly or hypertrophic scarring occurs (= thickened scar tissue). Read more about risks and complications.

Complications are generally rare and can usually be treated during a small, secondary procedure. Most complications don't have a negative effect on the final result.    

Anaesthetic

Every ear correction can be performed with a local anaesthetic, this means that you are fit and well to go home soon after the procedure. Though if you prefer intravenous sedation can be administered. A general anaesthetic is absolutely unnecessary.

With more effective pain relief a light form of anaesthetic is sufficient. In contrast to a general anaesthetic your breathing is not controlled mechanically. You breathe for yourself and swallow while you sleep, feeling no pain at all. A few hours after the operation you feel fine and are spared the often unpleasant side-effects of a general anaesthetic. 

Local anaesthetic or intravenous sedation:

The ear is temporarily anaesthetised with a couple of injections behind the ear. Following the procedure you can go straight home. If you prefer to have the procedure performed under intravenous sedation then you will be admitted to the Kliniek for the day. This means additional cost. During the consultation the doctor will discuss with you which method is best in your particular case.

Most patients choose a local anaesthetic but for small children we often advise that the operation is performed under intravenous sedation.   

Aftercare and Recovery

After your ear correction surgery you will be given special aftercare instructions. Each ear correction is different and each patient receives a specific tailor-made aftercare plan.

We can say that in general your ears may be swollen after the treatment and there may be some bruising which will disappear after a few days though the swelling may last a few weeks, so your ears will be thicker than normal. After 4 to 6 weeks the end result will be visible.

When the anaesthetic has worn off you can take some paracetamol to help with any discomfort.

Any non-dissolvable stitches will be removed a few days later.

Following treatment for prominent ears you will be given an elastic bandage. The first week you need to wear it night and day. Do not touch or wash the treated area. The bandage should remain closed and dry. A week later you come for your check-up. The surgeon removes the bandage and any remaining stitches. From this point you can shower and wash your hair. You only need to wear the bandage during the night for between 4 and 6 weeks after the procedure.

Most patients return to school or work a week after the operation. It is best to wait a few weeks before resuming any demanding physical activities or sports.

With ear correction surgery the scar remains visible as a red line for a few weeks to months, but because it is usually behind the ear it is barely noticeable. 18 months after your operation the red line has faded to white and there is hardly any evidence of the procedure.

After your operation you are given our permanent medical emergency telephone number. We are there for you day and night, we are at your service until you are fully recovered.