Otoplasty Surgery
Ear correction surgery is a reconstructive procedure used to change the shape, size or position of the external ear, helping to improve your appearance. It is most frequently performed to pin prominent ears back closer to the head, but it can also rebuild or balance asymmetrical ear structures.
An ear otoplasty can be tailored to your needs and the potential outcomes, risks and complications will be discussed with you. A consultation regarding the risks and limitations of surgery will help you to choose a procedure that will meet your expectations.
Nights In Hospital
Otoplasty surgery is almost always performed as a day case procedure, meaning patients usually don’t spend any nights in the hospital. Patients typically go home a few hours after surgery once the local or general anaesthetic wears off.
Recovery
Ear correction surgery typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for initial tissue healing and most patients return to normal daily routines within 5 to 7 days. Mr Ross will discuss this with you and suggest recommendations after the routine check-up.
Full Results
After 3 months, the ears fully settle into their permanent position and hidden scars behind the ears continue to fade. At this stage, you can assess the final outcome of the procedure.
Gary Ross, MBChB, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Mr Ross has over 20 years of experience within the industry here in the heart of Manchester, with his career starting at the Christie’s Hospital and specialising in reconstruction procedures. Mr Ross is a member of the:
- The General Medical Council (GMC)
- The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)
- The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS)
- The Association of Breast Surgeons (ABS)
- The British Association of Head and Neck Oncologists (BAHNO)
- First plastic surgeon recognised by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCSENG).
- Certification from iWantGreatCare with over 700 reviews.
Mr Ross’ work has been so impactful that it has led to several scientific contributions.
What To Expect During Your Consultation?
For the most successful procedure, you will need to be open and honest during the consultation about what problems you have and your expectations. Your specialist surgeon will ask you questions about your health, desires and lifestyle, so we can get a better understanding of the type of ear correction surgery you require. Any potential risks will also be discussed with you, so that you can choose the procedure that you’re most comfortable with.
Our Patient's Journey After Ear Correction Surgery
Here is one of our case studies for ear correction surgery, but for our full range of case studies, head over to our ear correction case study page.
Types of Ear Correction Surgery
Ear Pinning
A standard otoplasty usually involves pinning back protruding ears, helping to give your face better balance. You will have a small cut made behind the ear to expose the cartilage, so it can be removed or bent. Permanent stitches will then be given to hold the new shape.
Ear Reduction Surgery
Patients need ear reduction surgery to correct microtia or oversized earlobes. People choose this procedure to create facial balance, relieve physical discomfort or address emotional distress caused by the appearance of their ears.
Earlobe Repair and Reduction
For patients with torn, split or stretched earlobes, they can get earlobe repair and reduction to help them achieve a more balanced look. It’s also great for reducing naturally large or asymmetric lobes and restoring appearance after physical trauma.
Preparing For Ear Correction Surgery
The majority of correction ear procedures may be carried out under local anaesthetic. Your health is of prime importance and any cosmetic surgery should be postponed if you are unwell for any reason. It is important that if anything changes with your health that you make contact with us, so we can discuss the best course of action.
You should ideally stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and stop taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements before surgery, as these can impact the final results. You may need preoperative tests prior to surgery, which we will arrange if required. You will also generally experience discomfort following the surgery and should aim to be off work for at least 1 week depending on your line of work.
What to Expect After the Surgery
You will usually be able to go home the same day if your otoplasty surgery didn’t require anaesthetic. Keeping any wounds dry is essential and you should arrange for someone to pick you up following the procedure and have some support at home on discharge is always recommended, as you won’t be fit to drive if you had received general anaesthetic.
You will be reviewed in our Manchester clinic and the wounds will be checked weekly until you’ve made a full recovery. You should wear a support garment for a few weeks after surgery and you should be able to resume normal activities by 1-2 weeks, although you should avoid any contact sports for 6 weeks. Massaging the scarred area once healed should also help with the recovery.
Side Effects of Ear Otoplasty
The vast majority of patients are delighted with their ear otoplasty although it’s common to feel a change in sensation, bruising, swelling and there is often a slight difference between the two sides. The otoplasty scars following correction ear surgery can be red for a number of weeks to months after surgery and it can take some time before the scars start to heal properly.
Ear Correction Surgery FAQs
For those who wish to improve the appearance of their ears, otoplasty is highly recommended. Corrective surgery should also be considered if you have split ear lobes, excess lobules and anyone with ears that stick out too much or have not developed fully.
We recommend avoiding otoplasty surgery if you have been influenced by others to change your appearance, as it should be completely your own decision. Those with a significant medical history will also be asked to disclose this during the consultation to ensure that you are suitable.
There’s no fixed price for ear correction surgery. During the consultation with Mr Ross, all of your options will be discussed and once there is a final decision, you will be provided with a quote for your surgery, including any hospital stays needed, as well as the surgeon and anaesthetic fees. Check out the cost of procedures on our website.
If you’re a patient who likes high comfortability and the opportunity to choose your own surgeon, private hospitals are ideal for giving you a better experience. Gary Ross is a popular choice for ear correction surgery with his over two decades of industry experience. Check out his
testimonials to see what his past patients have to say.
Our Manchester clinic is one of the most accredited in the country, with all of our patients leaving the experience feeling well-rested and looked after. You’ll feel this from your first consultation with Mr. Ross, as he’ll have an in-depth discussion about your preferences so he can recommend the best treatment for your health profile.
