Face

 

Otoplasty (Ear Tuck)

 

Otoplasties are covered as an insured procedure in Saskatchewan if you are under the age of 18.  Some people, over the age of 18, may wish to have an otoplasty to improve facial contour and aesthetics.  This can be done under general or local anesthetic. The ears can be tucked back closer to the head.  This is achieved by reshaping the cartilage and suturing the ears back.

 

Surgery and Recovery

 

Under general or local anesthetic, the procedure takes about 2 hours.  The skin sutures are dissolvable but the sutures that shape the cartilage inside are permanent.  There can be bruising and swelling of the ears that can last several days.  Avoid vigorous exercise, swimming pools, saunas and hot tubs for 2 weeks.  There is initially a bulky dressing that can be changed to a lighter dressing after 2-3 days.  Afterwards, a headband or toque should be worn at night to help mold the ears for 6 weeks.  Avoid contact sports for 6 weeks.

 

Risks

 

Scar – The scars are usually pink and bruised for several weeks.  They will start to fade in a few months until they are quite unnoticeable.  Sometimes, the scars can be slightly raised, wide or sensitive.

 

Bleeding (hematoma) – It is rare to have bleeding and occasionally, we have to make a small incision to drain the blood.

 

Infection – The risk of infection is about 1% but it can be increased in smokers.  It may require antibiotics and/or more surgery.

 

Asymmetry – Although Dr. Chandran will try to make the ears symmetrical, but it may not be possible to make them identical.

 

 

Other rare complications may arise and they may be discussed during your consultation.