OTOPLASTY

What is Otoplasty? What are Otoplasty Techniques?

Otoplasty is a type of plastic surgery procedure that aims to correct the shape and position of the ear. It is also commonly referred to as "ear aesthetics". Otoplasty can aim to correct congenital ear deformities, to give the ears a more aesthetic appearance or to place the ears proportionally on the head.

Otoplasty is usually preferred to correct or improve the following conditions:

Floppy Ears: If the ears protrude too far from the head or rotate, this may be corrected for aesthetic reasons or lack of self-confidence.

Protruding Ears: If the upper or lower edges of the ears are not sufficiently shaped or not at the right angle, a protruding appearance may occur.

Asymmetrical Ears: Differences in size or shape between the ears can cause an asymmetrical appearance.

Otoplasty Techniques:

Classical Otoplasty (Regression Technique): In this method, sutures are used to shape the ear cartilage and bring the ears closer to the head. In the regression technique, the cartilage is reshaped and the auricle is brought into a position closer to the head.

Sutureless Otoplasty (Vivation Technique): This method uses special adhesives or surface stitches instead of sutures. It offers a faster healing process and minimizes suture scars.

Cartilage Grafts: Additional cartilage grafts can be used to correct areas of missing or weak cartilage.

Otoplasty surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia and can usually be discharged the same day. Postoperative symptoms such as swelling, bruising and mild pain are normal. Stitches are usually removed within a few weeks and full recovery can take several weeks to several months. It is important to follow your doctor's advice before and after surgery to ensure the best outcome.

What should be considered after otoplasty?

There are some important points to consider after otoplasty (ear surgery). Following these recommendations can speed up the healing process, reduce the risk of complications and help you maintain the surgical result in the best possible way. However, remember that since every patient is different, you should always follow the recommendations of the doctor who performed the surgery. Here are some general recommendations to follow after otoplasty surgery:

Rest and Recovery: Get enough rest in the postoperative period. It is important to keep your head elevated and avoid heavy activities.

Cold Application: You can apply an ice pack or cold compress to reduce swelling and bruising after surgery.

Stitch Care: If stitches were used, take care of them as recommended by your doctor. Find out when to remove the stitches.

Head Position: You can reduce swelling and bruising by keeping your head elevated.

Medication Use: Take painkillers and medications regularly as prescribed by your doctor. This can help you keep the pain under control.

Nutrition and Hydration: Eat a healthy diet and make sure you drink enough water. This can support the healing process.

Smoking and Alcohol: Limit or stop smoking and drinking alcohol in the postoperative period if possible. This can have a positive effect on the healing process.

Doctor Check-ups Do not forget to go to your doctor regularly after the surgery. Your doctor will follow your recovery process and make recommendations if necessary.

Sports and Physical Activities: Avoid heavy sports and physical activities after surgery. Do not start exercising without your doctor's approval.

Eye Protection: You can use sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunlight, wind and dust.

Monitoring Side Effects: If you experience more pain, redness, signs of infection or other problems than usual after surgery, contact your doctor immediately.

What are the Complications of Otoplasty?

Otoplasty (ear surgery) is generally a safe surgical procedure. However, as with any medical intervention, otoplasty surgery has potential risks and complications. These risks can vary depending on factors such as the patient's general health, the complexity of the surgery, surgical experience and technique. Here are some of the possible complications of otoplasty surgery:

Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of wound infection after otoplasty surgery. To prevent this, it is important to pay attention to postoperative suture care and follow hygiene rules.

Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during or after surgery. Therefore, it is important to avoid heavy physical activities in the postoperative period.

Scars: Scars may form as a result of otoplasty surgery. These scars may fade and become less prominent over time, but they may appear in different ways for each individual.

Asymmetry: Symmetry problems may occur in the ears after surgery. An imbalance or asymmetrical appearance may occur between the ears.

Stitch Problems: Problems such as opening or irregular healing of the stitches may occur.

Sensory Changes: Sensory changes in the ears may occur after surgery. This is usually temporary.

Vision Problems: In rare cases, temporary blurred vision or other vision problems may occur after surgery.

Ear Necrosis Ear tissue necrosis may occur due to circulatory disorders after surgery. This is a rare complication.

Anesthesia Reactions: Reactions to the anesthesia used during surgery may occur.

Psychological Effects: Emotional difficulties may sometimes occur after surgery. It is important to be aware of this and seek psychological support when necessary.

Although these complications are possible, it is important to remember that otoplasty surgery is performed successfully and safely in most cases. The plastic surgeon who will perform the surgery will assess the patient's specific situation and explain the possible risks in advance. It is important to follow your doctor's advice before and after surgery to minimize the risks.