|
This operation is performed to correct protruding ears. It is one of the few cosmetic operations that can be performed on children. Although the operation is performed on both men and women, it has greater appeal for men because many of them wear their hair short and cannot conceal the ear deformity.
Method
The method of surgery is to weaken the cartilage of the ear so that it bends into its new shape. At the same time stitches are placed in the cartilage to hold the ear in position until the new shape has formed. The incision is placed in the natural creases behind the ear. The operation is performed under either local anaesthetic (you are awake) or general anaesthetic (you are asleep). Most of the time this is an out patient procedure and a stay in the hospital is not needed.
Problems
All operations have some risk. The risks of surgery are divided into two groups. First those that are seen in all operations and second those that are unique or special to this operation. In the first group, the main risks are swelling, bruising bleeding a scar and numbness or change in feeling. The main problems, which are special to this operation, are abnormal reaction to the stitches and recurrence of the problem.
Postoperative Care
The recovery takes one to two weeks. Most people are back to work within a week or two. However, it takes many months before the final result is seen.
| 
