Ear Surgery -
About the Operation
Indications for surgery
Prominent or ‘Bat-ears’ can be embarrassing for children or adults. The best time to correct any deformity is when the ear has stopped growing at around 7 years of age. However, it is difficult for all children to agree to surgery at this age and patients can present from this age onward into adult life. It can be one sided or both. Teasing at school that is affecting a child should be taken seriously and if the child expresses an interest in surgery this should be at least explored.
Procedure in brief
The ear can be prominent from either the deep bowl in the center of the ear (concha) being too large or the rim of the ear (helix and anti-helix) not being folded or rolled as in most people. Surgery revolves around re-shaping the cartilage of the ear and not simply stitching it back. Some skin is usually excised behind the ear and the re-shaping done from this incision. The scar then lies behind the ear.
Incisions
The incisions are all behind the ear and therefore not seen.
Scars
Scars on the ears tend to heal very well. Although a little pink initially in the first few weeks they then fade to white. Most patients will form extremely good quality scars over time. Some reach this quickly while others take longer. A very small number produce red or raised scars although this is very rare on the ears.
Medicines and smoking
All medical history will be sought before any surgery. Do not take herbal medicines prior to surgery or for 3 days following (arnica etc). Also avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and voltarol-based tablets. It is always better if you do not smoke. If you are a smoker try and stop for five days before and after surgery as it can reduce the chances of complications.
