Techniques Used To Reshape Deformed Ears

If eyes are windows to the soul, then our ears are perhaps the windows to our intellect. We hear many things over the course of our lifetime. While a great deal of this is background chatter of little to now importance, a great deal of this noise needs to be injected and processed, which in turn will affect how we think about everything in the world.

Bearing this in mind, we must never underestimate the value of our ears. Whether it be cosmetic or functional, any slight deformity to our ears can affect how we use our ears to learn about the world. To address these deformities, many people are turning the plethora of different procedures that fall under the umbrella of otoplasty surgeries.

Otoplasty is actual a term that describes a number of different procedures. Otoplasty can involve actually reshaping the ear itself, or it can involve raising or lowering the ear's position on the head. The procedure itself begins with the administration of anesthetic, either local or general depending upon your age and pain tolerance. Then, the doctor makes a small incision, usually behind the ear to limit the possibility of visible scarring.

After the incision is made, excess tissue or cartilage can be removed from the ear. If needed, the doctor can reshape existing tissue or cartilage, and may even choose to add mass to the ear through natural or artificial tissue transplants. After the ear is reshaped and readjusted, the doctor will seal the incision line using simple stitches.

There should be a minimal amount of bleeding, but your doctor may recommend keeping the dressing on the incision areas for a number of years. Many patients experience minor discomfort that can be treated with pain medications on a minimal basis.

Some patients also have discomfort as they adjust to sleeping, but their normal sleep pattern should return as the ears heal. In some cases, the doctor may even recommend that patients where a headband to keep the ears in place as they heal.

To figure out what otoplasty procedure might work for you, it's important to find a trained, competent local doctor who can provide you with all of the information you will need.

They will be able to address your expectations and concerns, including any concerns you may have about the duration and intensity of your recovery period. If you find your ears aren't serving your interests, it may be time to open the window to your mind and consider otoplasty.