Otoplasty

Certain people may choose to undergo otoplasty to rectify a structural abnormality. Others may choose to undergo otoplasty as their ears may protrude too far from their head and one may not like their appearance.

Symptoms

Otoplasty may be recommended in the following cases:

1. When the ears stick out too far from the head but do not cause any loss of hearing 
2. Ears are disproportionately large to the head
3. Not happy with the results of a previous ear surgery 

Diagnosis

1. Physical examination: The doctor will physically check the ears of the patient to see if the ears are small, big, or protruding from the head. The patient’s overall physical health is also evaluated to determine the need and eligibility for undergoing eligibility.
2. Lab examination: If there is any ear discharge, a laboratory check is needed to determine the cause of the infection.
3. Tuning fork evaluation: This test helps in evaluating if there is any loss of hearing.
4. Audiology exam: A series of tests are performed to check the hearing at different volumes and pitches in a soundproof booth. This test helps in evaluating if there is any hearing loss.
5. Tympanometry: This test helps in checking the effect of air pressure changes in the ear.

Treatment

• The procedure may be performed under local anesthesia (the treatment area is numbed) or general anesthesia (the patient will be made unconscious during the procedure).
• An incision may be made either on the back of the ear or inside the folds of the ear, depending on the type of otoplasty being performed.
• Depending on whether you are undergoing otoplasty for ear augmentation, ear pinning, or ear reduction, the cartilage may either be shaped, folded, and permanently stitched, or it may be removed with some skin, or it could be grafted in the ear.
• The incisions are then closed using sutures or stitches.

Risks

The complications associated with otoplasty are:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Allergic reaction to the anesthesia used
• Scarring
• Changes in the sensation of the skin
• Unnatural, asymmetrical-looking ears
• Extrusion of the sutures needing removal and reapplication of sutures

After Procedure

• Your ears will be covered using bandages for support and protection after the surgery.
• You will normally go home on the same day of the procedure.
• It is normal to have some itching, pain, and discomfort immediately after surgery. 
• The bandages will be removed seven to ten days after surgery. It is normal to have redness and swelling for a couple of days after the removal of the bandages.
• If the stitches given are non-dissolvable, your doctor will remove them one to two weeks after surgery.
• You may resume work one to two weeks after otoplasty.
• Avoid swimming for four to six weeks after surgery. 
• Avoid contact sports like rugby and football for approximately twelve weeks after surgery.

Home remedies:

The following home remedies can help you in obtaining a smoother and quicker recovery following an otoplasty procedure:

1. Keep your dressing clean and dry during the recovery period.
2. Take pain-relieving medications to relieve your discomfort.
3. Sleep with your head elevated for about two weeks after surgery. Avoid sleeping on your side.
4. Keep your surgical area covered with a loose headband for at least two weeks after the removal of the bandages, especially while sleeping at night.
5. Do not scratch or touch your ears.
6. Do not place too much force on the incisions.
7. Try to wear button-down shirts or shirts having loose-fitting collars.

Cost of otoplasty in India-

The cost of otoplasty in Mumbai is between INR 60,000 to INR 1,75,000.
The cost of otoplasty in Delhi is between INR 55,000 to INR 1,65,000.
The cost of otoplasty in Bangalore is between INR 55,000 to INR 1,65,000.
The cost of otoplasty in Chennai is between INR 50,000 to INR 1,50,000.