Prominent ear correction is otherwise known as Otoplasty. It can be performed for either overly prominent ears or lack of the fold on the edge of the ear (called the antehelical fold) or both, and on one or both ears.
Alterations to the shape the ears are performed by making a small incision behind the ears in the crease that runs between the head and the ear.
This incision allows access to the internal structures in the ear called formed by cartilage that determine ear appearance. Specialized hidden cuts and internal stitches are then made to create the desired result.
Otoplasty can be performed under either local or general anaesthesia and if performed in isolation, can be performed as a day case operation which means you can go home the same day as the surgery.
Prominent ear correction is otherwise known as Otoplasty. It can be performed for either overly prominent ears or lack of the fold on the edge of the ear (called the antehelical fold) or both, and on one or both ears.
Alterations to the shape the ears are performed by making a small incision behind the ears in the crease that runs between the head and the ear.
This incision allows access to the internal structures in the ear called formed by cartilage that determine ear appearance. Specialized hidden cuts and internal stitches are then made to create the desired result.
Otoplasty can be performed under either local or general anaesthesia and if performed in isolation, can be performed as a day case operation which means you can go home the same day as the surgery.
What is the aim of Otoplasty surgery?
To enhance the appearance of the ears by reducing their prominence and improving shape
How long will the results last?
After Otoplasty surgery protective dressings are applied in the first week and nightly ear protection is needed for six weeks. If this is not performed then old ear shape can recur.
Therefore, the results of an otoplasty are very longstanding if the above protective precautions are taken in the first six weeks.
Dr Rory ensures you have critical ear support (despite changes your ear features) that will ensure the shape of your ears will be stable over time.
What happens on the day of surgery?
Prior to the day of surgery you will be given the following information and it is critical to know these details ahead of time:
On the day of surgery you will be checked in by a nurse and all your details will be confirmed and you will be changed into a surgical gown.
Dr Rory will see you before your surgery to run through all the details of the surgery, the consent forms as well as performing all your surgical markings. Multiple ID checks and procedure confirmation will be performed prior to your operation as safety is a priority.
After your surgery Dr Rory will notify your friends or family to let them know the procedure has finished and put their mind at ease. Depending on the procedure he will see you after the surgery and discuss the procedure.
When you are feeling comfortable, the team will then allow you to be discharged as planned that morning. All medicines and instructions will be given to you on your discharge.
How long will the surgery take?
If done in isolation, the Otoplasty takes approximately two hours. This is somewhat variable and depends on the complexity of the particular case.
This does not include anaesthesia time. In total, the whole procedure may last longer.
Will the procedure be painful?
One of the primary aims of any procedure performed by Dr Rory is to create a pain free experience.
A long acting local anaesthetic agent is injected at the end of the procedure within the wound to make you comfortable.
In terms of recovery, there will be some tenderness in the surgical area and some discomfort as well as swelling in the areas around the ears.
You will have a bulky protective ear bandage that will stay on for one week.
What is the recovery period?
This is a minor procedure but the bulky bandages mean the recovery is one week. For the first two days, it is recommended you sleep upright and not on your side to avoid pressure on the ears.
The bulky bandage is removed at one week and then night protection is advised to stop damage to the ears when moving whilst asleep.
During this time you can fully mobilise and are encouraged to walk around. In addition, you are advised to sleep with three to four pillows to elevate your head in order to further reduce swelling.
You should avoid bending over, strenuous activity or heavy lifting for two weeks.
What should I consider when recovering from the procedure?
All the stiches are dissolvable and some specialized skin glue is placed on the wounds that peels off at week three or four.
The final ear appearance will be at approximately be at one month.
Normal cardiovascular exercise can be resumed at two weeks.
Driving can be resumed at one week.
The final appearance of your scars behind the ears will be at 18 months.
What is the cost of the procedure?
If performed alone, the cost of the procedure varies depending on the extent of the surgery but starts at 30,000 AED (excluding VAT). This is somewhat variable and depends on the complexity of the particular case.
The final cost is determined on a case by case basis dependent on individual concerns and additional procedures.
A full surgical no-commitment consultation with Dr Rory will provide all the necessary details for your particular case.
What are the risks of the procedure?
These include some discomfort, infection, risk of bleeding, persistant swelling, asymmetry, contour irregularity and recurrence of old shape if protection is not performed at night.
The results in terms of resolution of swelling and bruising will be at approximately two weeks. This varies between patients.
Anything in particularly important I should know about the procedure?
It is straightforward procedure with high satisfaction rates if performed in the appropriate individuals .
The scars are well hidden and Dr Rory aims to make you look as natural as possible.
Ear asymmetries are very common in the general population and this can be the case after Otoplasty.
What is the follow up after the procedure?
Each patient has a follow up schedule that is different.
You will be advised by Dr Rory and his team your particular follow up journey.
Typically it involves seeing the team at one week after surgery for a wound check and removal of the bulky protective dressing.
Thereafter, scar and ear checks are performed at the six week point and then therafter depending on the case. This schedule will differ between individuals.
Who is involved in my care?
Dr Rory is the primary physician in charge of all your care. He performs all procedures himself and is meticulous about every aspect of your care.
Once he has performed a procedure on you he is available for you as your on-call doctor.
He will provide you with contact details and will be available for you. If you have any questions or concerns at any time he is available to support you.
He has trained his team around him to an exceptionally high standard from his aesthetic coordinators to aesthetic nurses.
In some instances, for example, for photography, garment fitting, wound dressings, checks or removal of stitches, his highly trained team will perform the care liasing directly with Dr Rory with real time updates.
