Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Aytekin
Prominent ears are considered a problem by many people because they do not fit the aesthetic structure of the face in terms of appearance and even cause psychological problems. Otoplasty and ear reduction surgeries are among the most preferred aesthetic applications by individuals.
Prominent ears may occur due to the incomplete development of the folds in the ear or genetic reasons. Ear development continues until the age of 6. If the prominent ear condition is noticed during this process, the child can be given bands by the doctor to prevent this situation. The ear completes its development at the age of 6 and reaches a normal size. Otoplasty is not performed during this process.
The appearance of prominent ears is more noticeable when viewed from the back of the head. The ear has turned inward. The angle between the head and the ear is quite wide. A flatter appearance is formed when viewed from the back. When viewed from the front, the ears appear inward. During otoplasty surgery, corrections are made on the cartilages on the back of the ear. While making these corrections, cutting and thinning are performed on the cartilages for the ear to appear normal. Permanent stitches are made on the cartilage to shape the ear and the ear is tilted backwards.
While otoplasty is performed under general anesthesia in children, it is performed under local anesthesia in adults. The surgery takes approximately 1 hour. There is no need for the person to stay in the hospital after the surgery. After the ear is bandaged, it is wrapped and after this bandage is opened, the ear is kept fixed using a hairband or tennis band. This band should not be too tight or too loose.
It is normal to have pain after otoplasty surgery. Pain can be reduced by using painkillers given by the doctor. Swelling and redness disappear after a while and the patient returns to his normal life within 2-3 weeks. The prominent ear problem, which disappears with prominent ear surgery, causes the person to relax psychologically and feel better. Since this operation is a permanent operation, there will be no problems in the future.