Is otoplasty a routine procedure with no risks? (photos)

There are essentially no surgical procedures without risks. There are some common risks shared by all surgical procedures such as pain, scar formation, bleeding, and infection. There are also some specific risks to each surgery. For instance, in case of otoplasty the specific risks include risk of mild asymmetry, suture failure and extrusion. Having said that, otoplasty can be considered one of the less risky cosmetic procedures. Once performed by an experienced surgeon the results are generally quite predictable and the recovery is often not too painful.

I agree you are a good candidate for an otoplasty.  It should be able to have it don’t under local anesthesia.  The thing to bear in mind about otoplasty is that there are many different techniques and surgeons have varying degrees of experience with the procedure because it isn’t done as often as some other procedures.   I agree with the use of the otobrader to create the curve of the ear, but also remove some cartilage in another portion of the ear.  

Dear Boolgari445,There are several techniques when it comes to Otoplasty.An otobrader is like a file or rasp for the ear cartilage.  It is meant to thin the ear cartilage so that it can be bent to the shape that you wantRemoving excess cartilage is also done, but usually limited to shaving the cartilage to make it thinner...and then making it easier to bendCutting into the cartilage is not a good idea because the edges of the cut cartilages are easily visible through the skin causing an unnatural appearanceI have attached a video showing my technique for a natural outcomeBest,Dr. Nima

Dear Boolgari445,my patients who get otoplasty tend to be the happiest patients I get to work with.  Otoplasty can be done under local in the office which means it typically doesn't take long to get you in.  You will need to wear a headband for about 3 weeks to protect your repair.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Otobrading is one of several "tools" in the toolkit that surgeons can use in otoplasty to reshape the cartilage. The otobrader can help overcome "memory" in the cartilage to allow it to be bent/reshaped more easily. Often it's combined with sutures and other maneuvers. It really is a question of surgeon preference and patient anatomy. Of course, no surgery is risk-free. Some of the risks of otoplasty include recurrence of the ear prominence, asymmetry, sutures spitting through, infection (rare), bleeding/hematoma, and other aesthetic causes of dissatisfaction. Sounds like you are doing your diligence in researching surgeons, though.

There are risks to every surgical procedure, and otoplasty is no exception.  The risks are low but include bleeding, infection, and recurrence of ear position. Otoplasty is a surgical technique used to correct prominent and/or asymmetric ears.  Multiple techniques are used depending upon the goals of surgery. This surgery can be performed from childhood through adulthood. Results are immediate and noticeable. In your consultation with your surgeon, make sure you are very specific as to what bothers you about the appearance of each ear.  Ears are complex structures.  There isn't just one technique that addresses each issue. Seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who is experienced with external ear surgery. Good Luck!

In our practice, we make small cuts in the cartilage itself, and re-create the anti-helical fold with permanent sutures. For examples, please see the link below

The otoplasty with the least risks is the Dr Merck Stitch Method because it doesn’t involve any removal of cartilage. One can check and co-determine the result in a hand-held mirror during the operation. A head bandage is not necessary with this method. One can go back to work again the next day.

 

Thank you for your questions.  Otoplasty is one of my favorite procedures because patients tend to be very happy afterword.  There are different techniques for otoplasty.  In my practice, since not all ears are the same, I tailor my technique to the individual patient.  For example, some patients benefit from having a small amount of excess cartilage removed and some do not.  It is important to consult in person with a board certified plastic surgeon who does otoplasties.  Your unique anatomy (which I can't see very well from your pictures) will dictate what techniques are best.  I hope that helps.  Best of luck to you.