Ear surgery

The correction of protruding ears is among the most common procedures in aesthetic and corrective surgeries, especially common among children. Various ear deformities that make ears protrude are mostly determined by genetic reasons, such as the following: isufficient antihelix or deep conch development; or combination of these two. Both of these anatomical structures are located in the outer ear. Since it is caused by genetics, protruding ears are visible immediately after the birth. Emotional problems caused by protruding ears, unfortunately, are increasing, particularly when children start to go to school and when children reach the period of adolescence. These are the reasons why ear surgery is recommended to carry out as soon as possible.

About the procedure

Ear correction, also known as otoplasty is usually done in the childhood, but it can also be successfully carried out on people of all ages who have external ear helix “defects”.

The operation is performed by ear cartilage simulation and by pressing ear helix closer to the head (behind temporal bone). The incision is hardly visible, as it is hidden in the sag between ear and head.

Am I a suitable candidate?

Future patients should consider the possibility of ear surgery if:

They are feeling dissatisfied with their ear forms;

They have protruding ears.

A good candidate for ear surgery is a patient with a good health condition (is not suffering from serious underlying diseases, infectious diseases, fevers, etc.), and has a positive mood and realistic expectations.

Before the procedure
During the procedure
After the procedure

Otoplasty is a successful surgery after which results are visible straightaway.

When you are preparing for ear surgery, the first step is primary consultation with a plastic surgeon. Plastic surgeons Gediminas Rauba and Jelena Romanova-Paškevič will be happy to consult you. You will learn about the main steps of preparation process, procedure length, you will discuss your health condition, possible risks and expectations. If you are unable to attend the initial consultation, we can always consult you remotely by e-mail: [email protected]

The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours. However, depending on the size of the correction and individual anatomical structures, it may take longer. Local and general anesthesia can be used during the surgery. There is not a single method for correction of protruding ears, but the ear cartilage is usually modeled and the incision is made right between ear and head. If there are additional removable tissues – they are removed, the skin is carefully modeled in that place for beautiful results. During the consultation your surgeon will determine the best ear correction method and surgical technique, so that the post-operative result would be natural and beautiful ears.

After the procedure, a thick bandage or “Koban” will be wrapped around your head in order to cover the ears. This bandage is usually kept from 24 to 48 hours and then replaced with an elastic bandage for a few days. You should use the elastic bandage for night time for about 3-4 weeks, so that the ears would be protected from unforeseen circumstances during sleep. You can feel pain after the surgery, but painkiller medications may be used.

As with any other surgery, swelling and bleeding in the treated area are possible. All possible side effects and risks will be discussed with the plastic surgeon during the consultation.