Large, protruding, or misshapen ears do not necessarily affect hearing. But they sure are a cosmetic issue. This problem can also make you vulnerable to teasing and bullying.
Ear reshaping surgery or otoplasty is a procedure to change the shape and size of ears and bring them into proper facial symmetry. Anyone whose ears stick out or otherwise appear out-of-shape can undergo this operation. However, it is most commonly performed on children between 4-14 since ears grow fully by age 4-5.
Are You a Candidate?
You may consider otoplasty if:
- You are healthy and not suffering from a life-threatening condition.
- You do not smoke or are willing to abstain from cigarettes for at least 6 weeks before and after surgery.
- You have a positive outlook and realistic expectations from the treatment.
Ear Surgery Benefits
Otoplasty offers several benefits, including the following:
- It greatly improves your aesthetic appearance by improving the shape, size, and position of your ears.
- It is a safe procedure, which doesn’t lead to many side effects.
- The procedure is suitable for correcting a wide variety of small imperfections.
- The surgery-induced scar is usually well-concealed.
What are the Types of Ear Reshaping Surgery?
There are three types of otoplasty, each one designed to meet unique ear-reshaping requirements.
Ear Pinning
Surgeons choose this type of otoplasty for individuals with protruding ears. It involves reshaping the cartilage to bring the ears close to the side of the head.
Ear Reduction
This type is recommended for people with oversized ears (macrotia). During this procedure, the surgeon removes some of the ear’s tissue to make it smaller.
Ear Augmentation
Some people have smaller, misshapen ears, a condition known as microtia. They can benefit from ear augmentation. This type of otoplasty involves using cartilage grafts from other parts of the body to the ears.
How is Ear Surgery Performed?
The Otoplasty procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Highly customized surgery may take 2 to 3 hours. Following is the step-by-step description of the surgery.
- The surgeon administers local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s health and age.
- They make incisions on the back of the ear or into the ear’s folds.
- Then, they add or remove tissue and reshape the ear, according to the patient’s requirements.
- In the end, the incisions are closed using sutures.
Ear Surgery Recovery
After your surgery, the surgeon will cover your ears with a dressing. They will tell you how to keep it clean and dry.
Besides that, you will need to ensure that you do the following during the recovery period:
- Abstain from touching the ears.
- Avoid wearing T-shirts or other clothes that require pulling over the head.
- Avoid sleeping on the side or in any way that brings ears under pressure.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Otoplasty?
You will probably start feeling better after about two weeks of your surgery. However, complete recovery can take around six weeks. That said, you should resume your routine activities only after your surgeon’s approval.
Before and After Results
Ear reshaping surgery aims to offer natural-looking, permanent results, though individual outcomes may vary. The goal is to achieve more proportional ears with an improved balance between the ears and the face. Results vary based on individual circumstances; consult with your surgeon to understand what you can expect.
Ear Surgery Cost in Dubai
The average starting cost of ear surgery in Dubai is AED 15,000. The exact treatment price depends on several factors, including:
- The type of otoplasty
- The type of anesthetic
- The practitioner’s expertise
- Geographic location of the clinic
Ear Surgery FAQs
What is the intended result?
The intended result is to create ears that are proportionate and naturally positioned, with improved aesthetic appearance.
How long do the results last?
The results of otoplasty are generally permanent, but it’s important to maintain realistic expectations and understand that ears continue to change as you age.
Is it Painful?
While otoplasty typically involves manageable discomfort, pain levels can vary and any unusual pain should be reported to the surgeon immediately.
Our Surgeons
Free Consultation
You should get an initial consultation before undergoing ear surgery in Dubai. Our experts at Dubai Cosmetic Surgery® are always available to guide you about the procedure. So, what are you waiting for? To understand more about the procedure and to see if you are a good candidate, fill out the form below for a free consultation with our experienced surgeons.
