How can it help?
Otoplasty is often done in childhood to avoid years of schoolyard taunts and bullying. In adults, the procedure can provide newfound freedom to wear your hair short or pulled back, something you may have spent a lifetime avoiding. For any age, the procedure improves self-confidence and self esteem.
Consultation
The first step when you are considering otoplasty is a consultation with Dr. Arianayagam. You should frankly discuss your goals and expections.
During the consultation he will ask you a variety of questions about your current health situation, medications, allergies and any past medical treatments.
He will then carefully examine your ears to assess the cause of the problem. Protrusion may relate to the concha, the cup shaped mid-portion of the ear, and/or the helical margin, the upper and outer half of the ear. After the examination, Dr. Arianayagam will discuss the options available and his recommendations.
Ideally, a second consultation is had a week or two later to give you the opportunity to come back with more questions and to confirm your decision.
Procedure
The particular surgical technique used will depend upon the causes for protrusion. It may be necessary to remove part of the concha to allow the ear to move closer to the side of the head. Stitches may also be used to roll the outer part of the ear into a more appropriate position. Sometimes a portion of the earlobe may also need to be corrected.
The procedure is performed at the Baringa Private Hospital under general anaesthetic, and takes approximately 2 hours. It is usually done as a day procedure, which means you will go home the same day.
Recovery
After surgery there will be a minor amount of swelling and bruising, which may take several weeks to subside. You will have a head turban dressing for 2 weeks and a head band for 10 weeks. Adults use the head band when at home, while children wear it at all times. All sporting activities are to be avoided over this period.
