It is very common that people do not like the shape of their ears, especially if they are misshapen or protruding. They feel embarrassed or self-conscious about their misshapen ears due to societal and cultural standards of beauty. Misshapen or asymmetrical ears can attract unwanted attention and can be the target of teasing or bullying, leading to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem.
People may also feel that their misshapen ears do not match their ideal self-image, causing them to feel self-conscious about their appearance. These feelings can be exacerbated by negative cultural stereotypes that associate certain physical traits with negative characteristics. Ultimately, these feelings of shame and embarrassment can impact a person’s self-esteem and confidence, leading them to consider otoplasty as a solution.
What is Otoplasty Surgery?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure to change the shape, position, or size of the ears. It can address issues such as protruding ears, large or misshapen ears, or ears with deformities caused by injury. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia and involves reshaping the cartilage and/or skin of the ear to create a more desirable appearance. The results are usually permanent, but in some cases, additional surgery may be needed to maintain the desired appearance.
What Otoplasty Surgery can Treat?
Otoplasty or ear surgery can treat a variety of issues related to the shape, size, or position of the ears, including:
Protruding ears: Otoplasty can help set the ears back closer to the head, creating a more natural appearance.
Large or misshapen ears: Otoplasty can help reshape the ears to be more proportional to the head and face.
Deformities due to injury: Ear injuries can cause deformities that can be corrected with otoplasty.
Earlobe repair: Earlobes that have been stretched, torn, or otherwise damaged can be repaired with otoplasty.
Ear asymmetry: Otoplasty can help correct asymmetry between the two ears.
Who are the Candidates for Otoplasty or Ear Surgery?
Children above five years: Children as young as five years old can undergo otoplasty to correct protruding or misshapen ears.
Adolescents and adults: Adolescents and adults with protruding, misshapen ears can benefit from otoplasty.
People with good overall health: The best candidates for otoplasty are those who are in good overall health, without any medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications.
People with realistic expectations: Otoplasty can improve the appearance of the ears, but it cannot create perfect ears. The best candidates for otoplasty have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.
Otoplasty is a personal decision, and the best candidates are those who are motivated to improve their appearance and boost their self-esteem.
Preparation Before Otoplasty Surgery
Before undergoing otoplasty or ear surgery, there are several steps you can take to prepare:
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Shobhit Gupta to discuss the procedure and determine if it is right for you. During this appointment, he will evaluate your medical history, skin type, and overall health to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
If you smoke, it is important to quit at least two weeks before and after the surgery as smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
Some medications, such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs, can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided before the surgery.
Since otoplasty is typically performed under anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure, so arrange for someone who can be with you after the surgery.
During Otoplasty Surgery
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: The patient may receive local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and their preferences.
Incisions: The surgeon will make incisions in the back of the ear or within the ear folds to access the ear cartilage.
Sculpting the ear cartilage: The surgeon will reshape, reposition, or reduce the size of the ear cartilage as necessary to achieve the desired appearance.
Closing the incisions: The incisions will be closed with sutures, adhesive strips, or surgical tape.
The duration of the surgery can vary depending on the specific procedure being performed and the individual case, but it typically takes between 2 to 3 hours.
Recovery After Otoplasty Surgery
Once the surgery is done, the dressing will be applied to your ears, which typically is worn for at least a week. Dr. Shobhit Gupta may also recommend wearing a tennis headband for at least 2 months after the surgery.
During the recovery period, the patient must follow the following instructions strictly: –
- Avoid bending down or lifting heavy items for at least a month
- Avoid blowing your nose too hard for at least 3-4 weeks
- Keep the treated ear dry and let the wound heal first
- Avoid lying or sleeping on the treated side to prevent discomfort or pain
- Keep your head elevated during sleep to minimize swelling
- Apply any ointment as directed by the surgeon
Risk and Complications of Otoplasty Surgery
Like with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with otoplasty. Some of the common risks and complications of otoplasty include:
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery.
- Infection: An infection can occur at the incision site or in the surrounding tissue.
- Scarring: There may be scarring visible around the ear, although in most cases, the scars will be hidden behind the ear.
- Anesthesia risks: There is a small risk of complications associated with the use of anesthesia.
- Numbness: There may be temporary or permanent numbness of the ear or surrounding area.
However, these are some of the common risks and complications. You can avoid severe or long-term risks by opting for a board-certified and skilled surgeon.
Cost of Otoplasty Surgery
The cost of otoplasty or ear surgery varies depending on various factors such as the surgeon’s experience, the geographic location of the practice, and the type of procedure performed.
The cost of otoplasty in India can vary, but it is generally lower than in other countries. It is always recommended to choose a board-certified and experienced surgeon to prevent any severe complications.
For a reasonable cost, visit or contact Shobhit Aesthetics, we provide the safest and most effective surgery at reasonable and affordable prices.
Otoplasty surgery is a very complex procedure that should be performed only by a skilled surgeon. Dr. Shobhit Ggupta is a highly prominent ear correction surgeon in India. He is a board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeon and a gold medalist. He along with his team of experts has treated multiple patients with a 100% success rate of patients given them new hope for living confident lives.
