Undergoing ear surgery (otoplasty) is a big step in anyone’s life. This procedure, which can correct cosmetic issues with the ears that were present since birth—or those that occurred as the result of an accident or injury—is actually quite commonly performed. But getting the best results is something that’s largely in your hands.
Your ultimate success will have to do with how you choose your plastic surgeon, who you ultimately select, how you undertake the recovery period, and other factors. Let’s take a look at best practices for achieving optimal otoplasty results.
How to Achieve Optimal Otoplasty Results
To get the best otoplasty results, it is essential to plan carefully and follow all medical recommendations. Choosing the right plastic surgeon and adhering to surgeon guidelines will help ensure a smooth healing process and natural looking results.
1. Research plastic surgeons.
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is key to achieving optimal results. Look for a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in otoplasty surgery and has a proven track record of successful otoplasty procedures.
Reviewing otoplasty results pictures can help you gauge their expertise. A skilled surgeon will use advanced otoplasty techniques to ensure natural ear shape and minimal otoplasty scars.
2. Meet with several surgeons before selecting one.
Consulting multiple plastic surgeons allows you to compare their experience, approach, and bedside manner. During consultations, ask about their experience with cosmetic otoplasty, ear pinning, and ear cartilage reshaping.
Discussing your medical history and expected final results will help determine if they are the right fit. A good surgeon will listen to your concerns and explain how long the results of otoplasty last.
3. Ensure you choose the correct procedure for your needs.
Otoplasty is a life changing procedure, but it must be tailored to your needs. Some patients need an ear pinning procedure to bring their ears closer to their head, while others require reshaping of ear cartilage.
If you have a birth defect or torn earlobe, a specialized surgical procedure may be necessary. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your overall appearance and goals.
4. Follow pre-surgery instructions closely.
Proper preparation before otoplasty surgery—or any head or neck surgery—always helps ensure a smooth experience and recovery time. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific guidelines, such as avoiding certain medications that can affect blood flow.
If local anesthesia is used, follow dietary restrictions before the outpatient procedure. Preparing for the first few weeks after surgery will also contribute to better otoplasty results.
5. Follow post-op instructions closely.
After your ear pinning surgery, following recovery instructions is essential to avoid otoplasty bad results. Keep the surgical incisions clean and avoid physical activity that could strain the healing process.
Pain medication may be prescribed for pain management, and you should avoid wearing heavy earrings or causing accidental snags. Staying out of the sun and taking care of your skin will help minimize otoplasty scars and improve the final appearance.
What if I End Up With a Botched Otoplasty?
Even with careful planning, otoplasty bad results can happen. If you experience a botched otoplasty, there are steps you can take to address the issue and improve your final results.
1. Consult your original surgeon.
If you are unhappy with your otoplasty results, the first step is to meet with your original plastic surgeon. They can assess the healing process and determine if additional time or treatment will improve the final results. Sometimes, swelling or the natural folds of the ear take a few weeks to settle before the ears achieve their final shape.
2. Seek a second opinion.
If your concerns are not resolved, consult another board certified plastic surgeon with experience in corrective ear surgery. They can evaluate your prominent ears and discuss options for revision otoplasty. Looking at otoplasty results pictures from past corrective procedures may help you understand what to expect.
3. Consider revision surgery.
If the initial otoplasty procedure did not achieve natural looking results, a revision surgery may be necessary. A skilled surgeon can correct uneven ears, unnatural creases, or issues caused by incorrect otoplasty techniques. The healing process for revision surgery may take longer, but it can significantly improve self confidence and self esteem.
4. Follow post-revision care instructions.
After a corrective surgical procedure, follow all post-op care instructions to prevent complications. Keeping the ears clean, avoiding excessive physical activity, and managing pain medication properly will help ensure successful otoplasty results.
FAQs: Otoplasty Surgery
How long do the results of otoplasty last?
Otoplasty results are generally permanent, as the surgical procedure reshapes the ear cartilage for lasting improvement. However, minor changes may occur due to aging or natural shifts in the skin and tissue. Following your surgeon’s care instructions will certainly help you maintain optimal results.
Can otoplasty fix protruding ears in adults?
Yes, ear pinning surgery is commonly performed on adults who wish to correct protruding ears. The outpatient procedure involves reshaping the ear cartilage and bringing the ears closer to the head. Adults typically experience a smooth otoplasty recovery with a short downtime.
What is the recovery time for otoplasty?
Otoplasty recovery varies, but most patients can return to work or school within a few weeks. The first few weeks after surgery are crucial for healing, and patients should avoid strenuous activities that could affect blood flow to the ears.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Considering otoplasty in the Chicago area? With years of experience in cosmetic otoplasty, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice can help you achieve natural looking results with this surgery. Dr. Rice customizes each surgical procedure to meet and exceed your needs.
If you are ready to improve your overall appearance and self confidence with otoplasty surgery, please call to schedule a consultation today.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/otoplasty/about/pac-20394822
