Prominent ear correction
Waterfront Hospital Edinburgh, Scotland
Prominent ear correction, also known as otoplasty or ear pinning, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to alter the shape, position, or size of the ears. This procedure is popular for improving the aesthetic appearance of the ears, often boosting the patient’s self-confidence and comfort. It is commonly performed for ears that stick out prominently or are disproportionately large.
Overview
Prominent ear surgery
- Type of anaesthetic
Local anaesthesia - Length of procedure
1.5 hours - Hospital stay
Day case – walk in, walk out - Recovery
Few days off work, 6 weeks before strenuous exercise
What the procedure involves
Otoplasty at Waterfront Private Hospital is carried out under local anaesthesia. The procedure typically involves:
- Making an Incision: Behind the ear to access the cartilage.
- Reshaping the Ear: By removing or sculpting the cartilage to achieve the desired appearance.
- Repositioning the Ear: If necessary, to bring them closer to the head.
- Closing the Incision: With sutures. Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced surgical techniques ensure a safe and effective procedure with minimal scarring and downtime.
Benefits and Expected Outcomes
Aesthetic Enhancements
- Symmetry and Balance: Improves facial balance by enhancing ear symmetry.
- Contouring: Reshapes the ears for a natural, aesthetically pleasing look.
Psychological and Emotional Benefits
- Increased Self-Esteem: Boosts confidence by resolving concerns about protruding ears.
- Improved Social Comfort: Enhances comfort in social and professional settings.
Functional Advantages
- Ease with Accessories: More comfortable wearing of hats and helmets.
- Freedom in Hairstyling: Greater flexibility in hair styling choices.
Long-Term Results
- Permanent Change: Offers lasting results with minimal need for maintenance.
- Quick Recovery: Normal activities can typically resume within a week.
Safety and Effectiveness
- Proven Safety: A safe procedure with a high satisfaction rate.
- Minimal Scarring: Incisions were carefully placed to minimise visible scarring.
In summary, otoplasty offers significant aesthetic, psychological, and functional benefits with long-lasting results. It is a valuable option for adults seeking to improve the appearance of their ears and enhance their overall quality of life.
Before and after prominent ear correction
Who is an Ideal Candidate?
Ideal candidates for adult prominent ear correction include:
- Adults who are self-conscious about the appearance of their protruding ears.
- Individuals in good overall health with stable ear growth (as ears typically stop growing after adolescence).
- Those with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the procedure’s outcomes.
We do not offer surgery to anyone under the age of 18 at our hospital.
Risks and Considerations
Risks are possible with any surgical procedure, and those for prominent ear correction include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Raised scarring
- Under or over-correction
- Asymmetry
- Suture extrusion
- Recurrence
At Waterfront Private Hospital, we prioritise patient safety and meticulously plan each surgery to minimise these risks, ensuring a smooth and successful recovery.
Further reading: BAAPS – setting back prominent ears
Aftercare and recovery
Post-surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling, which is manageable with prescribed medication. Recovery time is generally brief, with most adults resuming normal activities within a week. We provide thorough aftercare instructions and are dedicated to supporting our patients through their recovery journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prominent Ear Correction
Is Prominent Ear Correction Painful?
The ears are numbed using local anaesthetic before the procedure starts, so there should be no pain experienced during the procedure. Post-surgery, there may be some discomfort, but it’s generally mild and manageable with simple painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
How Long Do the Results of Otoplasty Last?
The results of otoplasty are usually permanent. The changes made to the ear cartilage are lasting, and significant changes in the ear’s appearance after surgery are uncommon.
Can Otoplasty Be Reversed?
Otoplasty is generally considered to be a permanent procedure. While minor adjustments might be possible, reversing the procedure entirely is typically not feasible.
How Old Do You Have to Be for Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is typically recommended for patients who are at least 5 years old, as the ears are usually fully developed by this age. There is no upper age limit for adults as long as they are in good health. At our hospital, we can only offer surgery to patients over 18.
Will I Have Scars After Otoplasty?
Scars are an inevitable part of surgery, but in the case of otoplasty, they are usually well-concealed behind the ears and are not noticeable.
How Much Does Prominent Ear Correction Cost?
The cost of prominent ear correction in Scotland can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the procedure and the surgeon’s experience. It’s best to discuss the costs during a consultation with your surgeon. Our guide price for otoplasty in Edinburgh is £3500.
Why Choose Waterfront Private Hospital for Otoplasty?
Selecting Waterfront Private Hospital for your otoplasty means you are choosing a facility renowned for its expertise in adult cosmetic surgery. Our experienced surgeons, state-of-the-art technology, and patient-first approach ensure that you receive the highest standard of care. We are committed to enhancing not just your appearance but also your overall quality of life.
