Otoplasty in Paris 16
Otoplasty surgeon
Protruding, oversized, asymmetrical or irregular ears can disrupt the aesthetic harmony and elegance of the face.
Even if they do not lead to hearing pathology, these disorders are often a source of psychological suffering, particularly for children who may be teased by their peers.
Otoplasty, or plastic surgery for protruding ears, is the procedure used to correct one or more of these malformations. It can be performed on both adults and children, and does not block ear growth. The result is often more than appreciated by young and adult patients alike.
What is otoplasty?
We can describe four anomalies frequently responsible for protruding ears:
When the anthelix is not folded, the auricle is flattened and the helix (or edge of the ear) is projected outwards. Plastic surgery for protruding ears will fold the anthelix to correct this problem.
The base of the ear is too large: it needs to be reduced
The angulation between the skull and the ear is too great.
Plastic surgery for protruding ears
Plastic surgery for protruding ears can usually be performed on both ears, but can also be performed on just one ear in cases of asymmetry or malformation.
Otoplasty (plastic surgery for protruding ears) can be performed on adults and children at their request.
Otoplasty in Paris 16
How do I prepare for plastic surgery on protruding ears?
Two to three consultations are necessary to define a surgical project with the patient. Together, we will define the abnormality or abnormalities to be corrected in order to adapt the surgical technique.
Smoking must be stopped at least one month before surgery, and continued for one month afterwards. No shaving or special haircuts are required for plastic surgery on protruding ears.
If possible, braids should be worn to keep the hair back. Piercings and earrings must be removed to limit the risk of infection.
It is advisable to buy a bandage before surgery to cover the second bandage; a sports bandage is sufficient.
Otoplasty
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, or plastic surgery for protruding ears, is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient’s stress level.
It’s a simple, short and painless procedure performed on an outpatient basis, i.e., the patient is admitted in the morning and discharged the same evening.
Through an incision hidden behind the ear :
- the cartilage of the antherix is folded;
- the concha is resected if there is an excess;
- the concha is brought closer to the skull;
- the lobe is returned to its correct position.
The suture is usually made with absorbable sutures, to avoid having to manipulate the ear when removing the sutures.
Otoplasty in Paris 16 & Paris 7
What are the after-effects of otoplasty or plastic surgery on protruding ears?
The results are immediate, and the ears are reattached immediately after surgery. Apart from the first dressing, which is done in the operating room by the surgeon, subsequent dressings are simple. They are initially carried out by a state-qualified nurse, then quickly by the patient himself/herself.
No drain is placed after the operation. The sutures used are absorbable, and will begin to fall out under the shower from the 10th day onwards.
Depending on the procedure performed, some swelling may appear after the operation. A change in ear sensitivity is possible for several months, but is generally regained.
Scars are washed daily by the patient and/or a qualified nurse. A headband must be worn for 4 weeks after the operation: two weeks during the day and night, then two weeks either day or night. Earrings and piercings should be avoided for 2 weeks. Post-operative pain is moderate and very well relieved by painkillers.
Children can quickly return to school (1-2 days’ rest). Sport is not recommended for 1 to 2 months
What are the risks of otoplasty / plastic surgery on protruding ears?
As with any surgical procedure, infectious, anesthetic and hematoma complications may arise.
Hematoma
Post-operative bleeding may occur, and a hematoma may form. Drainage is possible without the need for repeat surgery in the operating room. In otoplasty, the hematoma is superficial and can be reached in the surgery through the suture.
Fortunately, this is not a frequent occurrence.
Infection
In exceptional cases, infection may occur following otoplasty. In the event of a mild infection, antibiotic treatment with rinses is usually sufficient.
Recurrence
As the cartilage of the ear is an elastic structure, the risk of recurrence exists, even if it is low.
Is otoplasty covered by the Assurance Maladie?
Plastic surgery on protruding ears may be covered by the Assurance Maladie and your mutual insurance company. Otoplasty is covered if it causes ‘significant social inconvenience’, in the words of the Assurance Maladie. In practice, reimbursement is almost systematic for children.
If the procedure is covered by the health insurance, your mutual insurance company will supplement the reimbursement.
Otoplasty in Paris 16
Frequently asked questions
What is the Earfold?
The Earfold implant is used to correct protruding ears in cases where there is a defect in the folding of the ear, particularly the anthelix. Using a local anaesthetic, the ear can be folded inwards and the ear reattached.
At what age can ears be reattached?
From a very young age, when the child expresses the wish.
Aesthetic Surgery Paris 7 and Massy
Dr Azuelos on the networks
Here are a few photos of the results obtained thanks to the various surgical procedures or acts of aesthetic and regenerative medicine. As each patient is unique, the final result differs from one patient to the next. These photos are purely for information purposes and illustrate the possible results.
HealthCie | Le Créateur Digital Des Professions Médicales