Frequently Asked Questions

What is a ear correction?

What happens in an initial consultation?

Who is a good candidate for a ear correction?

What happens during an ear correction procedure?

How safe is the procedure?

How long does the procedure take?

Does the procedure affect hearing?

How bad is the pain during and after the operation?

Does an inpatient stay have to be scheduled?

When will I be fit and ready to get back to daily life again?

What precautions should be taken after the operation?

Is ear correction always possible?

Will there be any visible scarring?

Are there any risks or side effects?

What type of anesthesia is used and will I have to stay overnight?

Can I see before and after photos?

Plastic and Cosmetic Operations / Ear Correction

What is a ear correction?
This is usually used to correct a congenital problem where the auricle sticks out too much and is out of position, usually asymmetrically. The correction of this complex problem is called otopexy.

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What happens in an initial consultation?
The possible positions of the ear are explained. The patient and doctor then use a mirror to discuss the form of the ear that the patient desires.

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Who is a good candidate for a ear correction?
This is a solution for anyone unhappy with the way their ears protrude and are truly bothered by it, whether physically or psychologically.

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What happens during an ear correction procedure?
The area in the crease behind the ear is marked and an incision is made. Cartilage is removed and the skin tighted pulling back the auricle to a normal position. Anthelix plastic is inserted into the same incision but in the upper part of the ear where cartilage was removed so that the ear bends correctly. The excess skin is then removed and the remaining skin pulled back.

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How safe is the procedure?
The procedure is safe and well-established. It has been used for many years.

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How long does the procedure take?
The procedure takes 20 to 30 minutes per ear depending on the degree of difficulty.

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Does the procedure affect hearing?
Hearing is not adversely affected. The operation only affects the outer ear.

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How bad is the pain during and after the operation?
Pain during the operation is not worth noting. The procedure is done under local anesthesia so that no pain is felt.

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Does an inpatient stay have to be scheduled?
No inpatient stay is necessary.

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When will I be fit and ready to get back to daily life again?
It takes a week for the patient to back on their feet. During this week a head bandage must be worn.
The patient is back to normal once the stitches are removed. A head bandage must be worn at night for 4 to 5 weeks following the operation.

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What precautions should be taken after the operation?
The head bandage must be worn after the surgery and no outside disturbances should be allowed to affect the ear.

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Is ear correction always possible?
Ear correction is almost always possible.

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Will there be any visible scarring?
Scarring is not visible as it is hidden in the crease behind the ear and in the fine skin behind the ear.

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Are there any risks or side effects?
Risks include asymmetry after the operation or cartilige inflammation forming scar tissue. In extreme cases a follow-up surgery is necessary.

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What type of anesthesia is used and will I have to stay overnight?
Local anesthesia is usually sufficient.

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Can I see before and after photos?
Before and after photos are available.

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