What is it?
|
Otoplasty is the correcting
of prominent ears by setting them back closer to the head. It
is a technique often conducted on young children shortly
before they are about to go to school to lessen embarrassment
of prominent ears.
|
How is it performed?
|
Cartilage in the ear is
removed or bent back to allow the ear to bend naturally
towards the side of the head. The procedure usually takes
about 1 hour, and may be followed by a short stay in the
hospital. Occasionally a set back ear can protrude again,
necessitating a second operation.
|
How long will it take for the physical effects of the
operation to disappear?
|
| Some bleeding and bruising
may occur, so a head bandage is worn for up to one week to
protect the ears. After this, a bandage is worn at night for
a further 2 weeks. Excessive exercise should be avoided for
about 3 weeks. |
