OTOPLASTY

EAR SURGERY

 

Otoplasty Ear Surgery - Sydney

by dr naveen somia - specialist plastic surgeon

 
Ear Pinning Surgery or Otoplasty is a procedure performed to move prominent ears closer to the end and to reduce the size of the ears.    
 
Factors to keep in mind: 
 
  • Natural ears are asymmetrical - surgery to address prominent ears will still result in some asymmetry.
  • Due to the nature of elasticity of the ears, you can expect some movement of the ears after surgery.

Parents may seek surgical correction however it is important to ensure that the child has expressed a desire and willingness to undergo surgery.

 

CONCERNS

Prominent, protruding ears
 

 

RECOMMENDATIONS

Remove excess cartilage and skin

 

CONSULTATION

Assess ears
Discuss your goals
Discuss what is possible
 

 

CUSTOMISED PLANNING

To achieve your goals
 

OUR PROCESS 

You will generally see Dr Somia 3 times before your surgery.   If you prefer one of these consultations can be held via telehealth.    Two consultations are required by law before a date for surgery is scheduled.   This is to allow you plenty of time to ask questions and feel comfortable about the procedure.   Your third consultation will assist us to prepare you for your surgery (ie paperwork, pre-operative testing). 

 

PROCEDURE DETAILS 

The surgery takes approximately  2 hours and you can ususually go home the same day. Our fees include specialist plastic surgeon, specialist anaesthetist, fully accredited hospital theatre, accommodation and 6 months aftercare. A formal estimate will be provided after you have discussed your goals and what is possible to achieve them with Dr Somia.  

 

RECOVERY 

Each patient recovers at a different rate and anothers recovery should not be compared with yours. 

Generally, initial recovery approximately 2 weeks.   A return to normal activities can usually be expected after 6 weeks.   Full results can be expected 3-6 months after.  A head band (like a tennis band) needs to be worn initially to keep the ears protected.  

You can return to work when you feel well and if your employer has lighter duties for you and will allow you to take time to rest and move around.    Most patients take at least 2 weeks off work if they work in an office context.   Patients working outdoors or in a physical capacity may need to take up to 6 weeks off work whilst they recover.   Talk to us about your specific occupation and surgery.   

You can drive when the anaesthetic has worn off, your vision is clear, and you are pain free getting in and out of the care and whilst performing an emergency stop.   You should check your vehicle insurance policy for their requirements in this situation.  

 

RISKS 

All surgery carries risks. When travelling overseas on a plane whilst the expectation is a safe journey and arrival, it is understood things could go wrong. The choice of the airline based on safety record and flight path are important elements in determining risk. Similarly, for your surgery, the experience and expertise of your Surgeon, the skill of your anaesthetist and the standard of the hospital will determine the risk. Risks, both general and specific, will be discussed during your consultations and written information will be provided for you to take home.    

General risks include pneumonia, deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, stroke, heart attack, allergies, awareness, death, bleeding, infection, sensation change, haematoma and seroma, skin contour irregularities, damage to deeper structures, Firmness, delayed healing and tissue death, exposed sutures, dog ears or additional skin golds, dressing issues, asymmetry, scars, lymphoedema and unsatisfactory results. 

Risks specific to otoplasty are injury to the ear cartilage and need for extra tissue.

 

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOGRAPHY

Our practice privacy policy prevents sharing patient before and afters online. Indicative before and after photos can be viewed during your consultation.     

 
 
DISCLAIMERS:   All surgical procedures are performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Naveen Somia (MBBS PhD, FRACS - APHRA Reg:  MED 0001189889).  For full information on Dr Somia's qualifications and risk/recovery information on procedures please visit the procedure page on this website.  From July 1, 2023 all surgical procedures require a GP referral.
 
All surgery carries risks.  information provided is general only.  Outcomes experienced by one person do not necessarily reflect the outcomes of others given factors such as genetics, diet and exercise.  Please seek a 2nd opinion from a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.  

Book a consultation

or call: 02 9387 2110

fracs

Royal Australasian College of Surgeons

psruol

Plastic Surgery Research University of Louisville

trcosof

Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

paces

PACES Plastic Surgery Atlanta USA