Ear appearance can be a source of teasing, especially for children. These jokes can certainly have a detrimental effect on self-esteem. The only permanent way to reduce or increase ear size is through surgery: otoplasty. This procedure can also correct ears that protrude from the head or repair imperfections caused by injuries.
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic ear surgery performed on the visible part of the outer ear, called the auricle. The auricle is comprised of folds of cartilage covered with skin. This part begins growing before birth and continues to develop over the following years. Otoplasty is, in fact, a solution that can correct several imperfections detected in this external part of the ears:
Ears that stick out from the head: Congenital prominent ears are a cosmetic deformity that can have a serious emotional and behavioral impact on a child. It should be noted that surgery for prominent ears is best performed at the age of 6 to 7 years.
Larger or smaller than normal ears: The surgeon will be able to modify the size of the ears to harmonize them with other facial features.
Ears that exhibit an abnormal shape: due to injury/accident, trauma, or a structural problem since birth.
In conclusion, it's a cosmetic surgery that allows you to correct the size, position, or shape of your ears. Additionally, some people want to improve the final appearance of a previous otoplasty that didn't produce satisfactory results.
Focus on the different types of cosmetic ear surgery
Otoplasty works on the ears in different ways to repair several unsightly aspects.
Increased ear size
Some people may have small ears or ears that are not fully developed. In these cases, they may undergo otoplasty to increase the size of their outer ear.
Pinning protruding ears
This type of otoplasty involves bringing the ears closer to the head by reducing their projection. The procedure is performed on people whose ears protrude from the sides of their head. If the ears protrude more than 2 centimeters from the head, they are considered protruding. The majority of ear deformities are congenital. Fortunately, prominent ears are easily corrected.
Reducing the size of oversized ears
Grostia is the excessive development of the auricle. People with grosstia may also undergo otoplasty in Tunisia to reduce the size of their ears.
What is the profile of a good candidate for otoplasty?
Otoplasty is most commonly performed on children between the ages of 6 and 14. However, it's never too late to make a change, and adults can also undergo this cosmetic surgery.
Good candidates for otoplasty include those who are:
Age 5 or older: This is when the auricle has reached 90% of its adult size.
In good general health: Having an underlying illness can increase the risk of complications or affect recovery.
Non-smokers: Smoking can decrease blood flow to the area, slowing the healing process.
How is cosmetic ear surgery or otoplasty performed?
Decide on cosmetic ear surgery!
The first step is to consult a surgeon. During the initial interview, explain your goals and verify that your expectations for results are realistic. Then, discuss your medical and surgical history. Then, inquire about risks, complications, costs, and recovery.
You should also talk to your health insurance company. This way, you can find out before surgery what your insurance will cover. Note that most health insurance companies only cover otoplasty if it addresses a functional problem, such as correcting a hearing impairment. Your insurance may also provide coverage if otoplasty is performed to correct a deformity or birth defect.
The procedure for cosmetic ear surgery: otoplasty!
There are several options for ear reshaping or repair. One involves cutting the cartilage, which is the main structural component of the ear. The other involves bending and sewing the cartilage instead of cutting it. The choice of procedure actually depends on the results of a preoperative diagnosis.
In both cases, your surgeon will begin by making a small incision behind the ear. This will then allow access to the cartilage in order to perform the planned procedure. Once the surgery is complete, the surgeon will close the incisions with absorbable stitches.
Cosmetic ear surgery will last approximately two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure in your case. It may take more than three hours if the procedure you require is very complex.
With your medical tourism agency MEDCARE Vacances, you can have surgery in Tunisia. Contact us and let's start planning your medical stay in Tunisia.