Otoplasty: surgery for protruding ears

Otoplasty is the name given to corrective surgery for protruding ears. It can be unilateral, but usually involves both ears. Before the operation, the surgeon will perform an ear examination and photographic assessment to determine the modifications to be made, as well as the usual pre-operative check-up. A consultation with the anaesthetist will take place no later than 48 hours before the operation. A hairstyle that leaves the ears clear should be planned.

Objective of surgery for protruding ears

Otoplasty corrects a defect in the folding of the ears. Its aim is to reshape the cartilage of the auricle to correct the abnormalities responsible for the protruding appearance of the ears, and obtain symmetrical ears with a natural appearance and size. Performed on both adults and adolescents, it is usually performed from the age of 7. It may be partially reimbursed by health insurance.

Anaesthesia :

Three types of anesthesia are possible: simple local anesthesia, which numbs the ears with a locally injected product; thorough local anesthesia, with intravenous tranquilizers; and general anesthesia.The procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis, with discharge on the same day after a few hours' monitoring, but sometimes a short hospital stay is recommended.

In the 10 days preceding the event, all medications containing aspirin are prohibited.

Incisions :

They are located behind the ears and are therefore invisible. While each surgeon's technique is unique and adapted to each individual case, certain basic principles are common to all. Skin incisions may be made in the natural crease at the back of the ear or on its posterior surface, sometimes accompanied by additional incisions on the anterior surface of the auricle, without the need to cut the hair. The skin is peeled away to allow access to the cartilage. Cartilage remodeling consists in recreating or improving the ear's natural contours by refining and folding, or even using fine deep sutures to maintain them.

Sutures are made with absorbable sutures; otherwise, the sutures will have to be removed about ten days after the operation. Bandages are applied with elastic bands around the head to keep the ears in the correct position.

Duration of intervention :

Otoplasty surgery lasts between half an hour and an hour and a half.

Operative sequences :

Post-operation pain is generally moderate, and may require analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatment; if this does not help, a consultation with the surgeon is essential. The first dressing remains in place for one to three days, and is replaced by a lighter bandage for a few days. A compression bandage will be worn day and night for two weeks, then only at night for a few weeks. The ears may show swelling and bruising of varying severity for a short time.

We strongly advise against exposing ears to extreme cold for at least two months, due to the risk of frostbite. Likewise, physical activities involving the risk of contact should be avoided.

The final result is visible after one or two months, the time needed for the tissues to soften and the oedema to subside. The scars, which appear slightly pink and indurated, will take a little longer to fade.

Covered by Social Security :

Otoplasty surgery is covered by social security
Possible complications:

As with any surgical procedure, complications are possible: classic risks associated with anesthesia, external post-operative bleeding, hematoma, infection, skin neurosis, abnormal scars, etc.