Introduction

Prominent ear correction surgery or “Otoplasty”, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the ears to decrease their protrusion from the side of the head. It is performed to correct “bat ears” (prominent or protruding ears), which can cause self-consciousness and social anxiety. The purpose of this surgery is to decrease the prominence of the ears by re-creating the underdeveloped fold in the ear and suturing the cartilage of the ear closer to the side of the head. A/Prof Marucci uses a “cartilage sparing” technique, where the new ear shape is held in place with long-lasting sutures. The alternative techniques, which involve cutting through or removing sections of cartilage, can cause unsightly sharp edges which can be difficult to correct. A/Prof Marucci has been a champion of suture prominent ear correction for the past 15 years.

What is Otoplasty Surgery?

During an otoplasty or prominent ear correction procedure, the ear cartilage is reshaped and repositioned to decrease the prominence. This is achieved through an incision close to the fold behind the ear. Once the ear has been successfully “set back”, the incision is closed with sutures, and a head bandage dressing applied.

Benefits of Otoplasty

Otoplasty can offer a number of benefits, including:

• Decreased prominence of the ears
• Reduced self-consciousness and social anxiety

Who is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Good candidates for prominent ear reduction surgery or otoplasty are:

• In good overall health
• Have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure
• Are bothered by the appearance of their ears

Before and After Photos of Prominent Ear Correction (Otoplasty)

Here is are the before and after photos of one of A/Prof Damian Marucci’s previous prominent ear correction patients:

What to Expect Before, During, and After Otoplasty

The Initial Consultation

A/Prof Marucci will take a detailed history of your concerns about your ears, any history previous ear surgery or trauma, a general medical history including any medications or allergies you may have. The physical examination will focus on the cause of the ears being prominent – whether the upper part of the ear has “unfolded” (underdeveloped superior crus of the lesser helix), whether the conchal bowl is too large and whether the angle of the conchal bowl to the side of the head is too obtuse. Often there is a combination of all three issues. Your goals and expectations will be discussed. You will be shown some before and after photos of previous cases A/Prof Marucci has treated. A surgical consent form will be completed once you are happy to proceed with surgery.

Before Otoplasty

• You will need to stop all blood thinner medications before the surgery. Let A/Prof Marucci know which blood thinners you are on. You will be told when to stop these types of medicine and when you can recommence them after surgery
• You will be told a few days before the surgery when to be at the hospital and when to stop eating and drinking

During Otoplasty

• You will be taken into the operating theatre and the anaesthetist will make you go to sleep by giving you medicine through a drip
• A/Prof Marucci will then put local anaesthetic solution around the ears. Incisions are then made in the fold behind the ear. The cartilage of the ear is folded back and held in place with non-dissolving stitches (they stay in the wound forever). The ear is then sutured closer to the side of the head using non-dissolving sutures. The skin wound behind the ear is then closed with dissolving sutures. Dressings are placed on the wounds. A head bandage is then put on.

After Otoplasty

• You will go home on the day of the surgery. Take it easy when you get home. Leave the dressings alone. Keep the bandage on and keep the bandage dry (you can shower from the neck down)
• Sleep on an extra pillow or two
• The local anaesthetic will last for a few hours. You will be given painkillers to go home with
• If there is any bleeding from the wound, put firm pressure on the bleeding area for at least 10 minutes with clean tissues. This should stop 99% of all bleeding. Look at the clock and make sure it is a full 10 minutes. If the bleeding hasn’t stopped after 20 – 30 minutes of pressure, let the rooms or A/Prof Marucci know
• If there is spreading redness / increasing pain / signs of infection, please let the rooms or A/Prof Marucci know
• You will see A/Prof Marucci a week after the surgery. He will remove the bandage and inspect the wounds. After that, you can shower NORMALLY over the ears, using soap /shampoo / everything you would normally shower with. The wounds can get wet. After your shower, pat the wounds dry.
• You will need to wear a tennis headband that goes on over the ears day at night for a week after the head bandage comes off, and then just wear it at night for another 2 or 3 weeks

Risks and Complications of Otoplasty

Otoplasty is a routine procedure, but there are some risks and complications associated with it, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Changes in ear sensation
• Unsatisfactory results

For a full list of potential complications of cosmetic surgery, please click here.

Recovery from Otoplasty

Most people are able to return to work or school within a few days of otoplasty, although the bulky head bandage will remain in place for one week. However, it may take several weeks for your ears to fully heal. During this time, it is important to avoid strenuous activity and protect your ears from the sun.Most of A/Prof Marucci’s patients are able to drive within a few days of surgery.

Finding a Qualified Otoplasty Surgeon

It is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon for your prominent ear correction procedure (otoplasty). Look for a surgeon who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) as well as the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). A/Prof Marucci has a FRACS in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is on the Education Committee of ASPS and is on the Board of ASAPS. A/Prof Marucci is registered a specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery with AHPRA.

Conclusion

Prominent ear correction surgery (Otoplasty) can be a effective way to improve the appearance of your ears and reduce self-consciousness. However, it is important to understand the risks and complications associated with the procedure before you decide to have it. If you are considering otoplasty, be sure to consult with a qualified surgeon like A/Prof Damian Marucci to discuss your goals and expectations.