Protruding or large ears can cause emotional and physical distress in both childhood and adulthood. Protrusion develops when the main fold of the ear, the antihelix is missing. Children with protruding ears tend to be teased at school hence the recommendation for them to be corrected before school going years. Since the human ear is fully formed by seven years of age, this can be easily rectified. The aim of ear correction surgery is to reshape the cartilage, improve the appearance of the ear and bring proportion and balance to both ears and to the face in general.

METHOD

Ear correction otherwise known as an Otoplasty Procedure is performed by re-shaping the ear cartilage and re-sculpturing the newly-shaped cartilage. The cartilage is exposed via an incision discreetly placed behind the ear. It is softened by scoring using a scalpel and then molded into its new shape. Attachment of the cartilage is achieved with sutures.

THE PROCEDURE

Prior to surgery, the extent to which the ears require correction is established by accurately measuring various distances. The one-hour surgery is performed under sedation as an out-patient. The associated risk is relatively low. If both ears need correction, the procedure is first completed on one side and thereafter on the other side. Following a period of rest, the patient is discharged. The patient may return to school or work after two days and the sutures can be removed after one week. To avoid accidental kinking of the ear, especially during sleep, the patient must wear a headband for a period of two to three weeks after the operation.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

Ear correction is a low-risk intervention as no vital organs are involved. Immediately after surgery mild pain and bruising can occur.