.png)
.png)
.png){kind=small}
Otoplasty
Ear reshaping addressing a spectrum of anatomical anomalies
ˈəʊtə(ʊ)ˌplasti
An otoplasty refers to any procedure that alters the appearance of an ear such as size, shape and prominence. A prominent ear is a term that is not only subjective but also broad, incorporating several anatomical anomalies that may lead to such an appearance. It is therefore crucial to tease out your particular concerns, in the context of your ear anatomy in order to determine which components should be addressed, rather than performing a one size fits all approach of setting back a prominent ear.
The degree of alteration is very much guided by your goals while considering your overall facial features. This ensures a well balanced natural appearance with a noticeable difference without directly drawing attention to the site that was operated on.
A frequently used otoplasty approach uses suturing techniques to mould and hold cartilage into a new shape with or without the partial excision of some cartilage elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an otoplasty covered by medicare?
An otoplasty is considered medically indicated by Medicare under the age of 18.
This means that an otoplasty may be done at no cost through Medicare, in a public hospital setting.
With a private health fund, the surgery can be done in a private hospital with your surgeon of choice, and depending on your type of cover, most of the hospital and anaesthetic fees will be covered. There will still be out of pocket gaps to pay.
At what age can an otoplasty be done?
Depending on the circumstances, an otoplasty is often done in young children but also at any age later on in adulthood.
How is an otoplasty done?
Many techniques can be used to achieve the desired ear shape and size. Cartilage is held in place by sutures following a range of cartilage moulding, scoring, breaking or excision techniques.
What type of anaesthesia is required and what is the recovery like?
General anaesthetic. Some patients specifically request to have their surgery done wide awake under local anaesthetic only. An otoplasty is done as a day case which means you may be discharged within a few hours of surgery.
A head bandage is used at the end of surgery which needs to be kept clean and dry and on at all times for one week.
This is followed by a headband which is to be worn while sleeping for a further 5 weeks.Avoid contact sports for 3 months.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
What are the potential risks and complications? Access a detailed surgical procedure information sheet by the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons here.
