A successful otoplasty procedure restores the harmonious anatomy of the ears and results in a 100% natural look without the ear looking like it has been surgically operated on.
Floppy ears are the most common type of congenital ear deformity. Ears that protrude excessively from the skull cause an unbalanced look for the face as a whole. With otoplasty, the ears are placed in their correct position according to the face’s morphology.
Ear surgery is usually performed on young children—starting at about 4 years old and before they start school—when the problem is severe and noticeable. The plastic surgeon also recommends this himself to avoid any psychological trauma from classmates at school.
In adults, the psychological toll can also be significant because of the external appearance that may affect a person’s social and professional success.
The essential parameters of successful ear surgery include the correct positioning of the ears at the ideal angle, without changing anything in their shape, especially in their anatomy.
It is a congenital condition primarily due to genetics, creating a deformity in the flap that causes the ears to protrude forward. It usually affects both ears, but it is not uncommon for the deformation to occur in just one ear. Proportionally both sexes have the same likelihood of developing this deformity. However, since boys often wear short hair, it tends to be more noticeable in their appearance.
There are many techniques for addressing problems, and the appropriate strategy depends on the nature of the particular situation. Ultimately, the surgeon will suggest the appropriate method after the initial examination of the ear.
The most effective technique is one that achieves the desired results without damaging or changing the appearance of the ear and doesn’t leave signs that the ear has been operated on.
Over the years, the cartilage skeleton of the ears will change. However, the otoplasty results will remain permanent, and no changes will be reversed. The quality of the results, of course, depends on the skill and expertise of the plastic surgeon. Once the procedure has been carried out correctly, it will never be necessary to repeat it in the future.
Dr. Georgios Aravanis boasts an excellent track record of successful otoplasty procedures. He always focuses on three key factors: safety, perfect results, and offering an affordable price for his patient.
After the operation, patients must keep their ears bandaged for at least a week. In general, it is one of the most painless and hassle-free plastic surgery procedures. After surgery, patients are usually discharged from the hospital the same day and given antibiotics as a precaution.
The visible swelling present immediately after surgery will subside in a few days. Children can return to school after a week, but their activities and vigorous play should be limited at first.
Adult patients will be able to return to work five days after surgery.
As mentioned above, the appropriate age for young children to undergo otoplasty is after 4 years of age to prevent any psychological burden on young patients that may be caused by teasing by their peers at school. For adults, we recommend undergoing surgery when the patient feels the need and is ready to change the appearance of their ears.
The procedure can be performed either under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Many factors play a role in the choice of anesthesia, including patient comfort and fear. Children are usually put under general anesthesia when they undergo surgery because they tend not to cooperate otherwise. The duration of the operation does not exceed 45 minutes for each ear.
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Complications are extremely rare during otoplasty. It could be said that bleeding and infection are the most common complications to arise. If the doctor does not have the proper experience, cases may arise in which the flap tends to return to its original position. For this reason, the doctor’s expertise is critical to the operation’s success.
Healthy children over 4 years old that do not have frequent ear infections or suffer from other medical conditions are suitable candidates for surgery. It is important that the child be able to express their feelings and cooperate.
Adults (or adolescents) who do not have serious health problems are suitable candidates for the surgery as well. It is advisable that they are not smokers.
First, an evaluation of the patient’s health through blood tests and cardiological exams is essential. Certain medications may be discontinued or adjusted for some time before the surgery.
Otoplasty is a plastic surgery that can be affordable for most people. The final cost of the treatment is always determined after an initial physical examination. Dr. George Aravanis keeps costs at a stable level, responding to the needs of his patients and disclosing all costs without hidden charges.
A successful otoplasty procedure restores the harmonious anatomy of the ears and results in a 100% natural look without the ear looking like it has been surgically operated on.
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