The outcome to correct protruding
ears is present almost immediately, but it does take time to settle
fully, so some patience is required.
The size, shape, and position of the normal ear is most often a familial
characteristic. This can be observed by comparing parents, grandparents,
and siblings of any patient under examination. Deformities of the ear
are also of similar nature, including those which show variations of
cartilage contour and the protruding ear, particularly when both sides
are involved.
The child with protruding ears is often subjected to unkind remarks that
can be a source of significant distress. Feelings of self-consciousness,
rejection, and hostility are underlying reactions to lack of peer
acceptance. While adults generally do not express such attitudes openly,
the grown individual frequently maintains the same sensitivities that
were present during childhood.
Surgical correction can be performed quite effectively as early as the
fourth, fifth, or sixth year. By that time, the ear itself has already
reached almost adult size so that there will be little if any subsequent
change. The operation is performed by repositioning or otherwise
altering the flexible cartilage structures. There are several variations
of deformity, each of which must be treated in a different manner.
Basically, the surgical objectives are to reduce the protrusion and at
the same time to provide a soft natural curve of the anti-helical fold
when the ear is viewed from the side .Surgical incisions are ordinarily
placed behind the ear where any remaining surface scars will not be
visible. Sutures are absorbable and do not require removal.
Application of a head dressing is
necessary so that both ears can be protected, swelling minimized, and
discomfort limited. The head dressing will also permit the patient to
turn from side to side when asleep without painful pressure. In this
case, the surgical head dressing is worn or approximately five days
after which time the remaining swelling will gradually disappear. After
five days the patient is requested to wear a bandage at night only for a
period of three weeks. Some variations in management should be
anticipated, depending largely upon the specific correction under
consideration. The hazards or risks in this procedure are few. Probably
the most common is residual irregularity in the cartilage when the ear
is viewed from either frontal or lateral planes. It should be noted,
however, that both ears are never exactly alike, even in the normal
state, and that perfect symmetry is therefore not a reasonable
expectation. The purpose of the head dressing and careful padding is to
avoid fluid collection and therefore it should not be disturbed. Minor
adjustments in earlobes may also be desirable afterwards. Finally, the
operation has no adverse effects upon the hearing mechanism, which
involves the inner ear structures.
The otoplasty operation is generally most successful and can truly
provide satisfaction with improved personal confidence and self-esteem.
