Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the ears to correct congenital or acquired deformities, in addition to improving the shape, position or proportion of the ears in relation to the head. It is often sought after by people who are dissatisfied with the size, shape or prominence of their ears, which can cause emotional discomfort and affect self-confidence.
There are several reasons why someone might consider otoplasty, including:
Prominent ears: Often referred to as "protruding ears," prominent ears can be a source of embarrassment and low self-esteem, especially for school-aged children.
Ear asymmetry: Some people may have ears of different sizes or asymmetrical shapes, which can be corrected with otoplasty to achieve a more balanced and harmonious appearance.
Congenital deformities: Some people are born with ear deformities, such as cupped ears (ears that have a shell-like shape), no natural ear folds, or microtic ears (small ears).
During the otoplasty procedure, the plastic surgeon makes strategically placed incisions behind the ears or within the natural folds of the ears, depending on the correction needed. The cartilaginous tissue is then sculpted, reshaped, and sutured as needed to create the desired shape and reposition the ears closer to the head.
Otoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia in adults and general anesthesia in children. Recovery is relatively quick, with many patients able to return to normal activities within a few days to a week after surgery. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activities that may put pressure on the ears for several weeks after the procedure.
The results of otoplasty are generally permanent and visible immediately after surgery, with a significant improvement in the appearance of the ears. However, it's important to have realistic expectations and understand that ears will continue to age over time, just like the rest of the body.
As with any surgery, there are potential risks associated with otoplasty, including infection, bleeding, asymmetry, poor healing, and changes in ear sensitivity. Therefore, it is essential to choose an experienced plastic surgeon certified by the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery and follow all pre- and post-operative guidelines carefully to ensure the best results and minimize risks.
