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Ear Reshape
Click here to see a video of our Senior Surgeon and Medical Director Andrew Skanderowicz F.R.C.S. discussing the ear reshape (otoplasty) operation.
Before The Ear Reshape Operation
Introduction to Ear Reshape
Protruding ears (“Bat Ears”) is an inherited condition and can cause significant embarrassment especially if a person is constantly teased. In all people the ears are not completely symmetrical and it is usual for one ear to be further out than the other.
There are two ways in which the ears can protrude more than usual:
1. The inner part of the ear flap (concha) might be unusually long or large.
2. The angle between the concha and the outer part of the ear flap (helix) might not be properly formed so the helix extends sideways rather than going backwards (the usual position).
Often both of the above conditions exist in severe cases.
The purpose of an ear reshape operation (otoplasty) is to reduce the distance between the side of the head and the protruding part of the ear to about 15mm (1/2”).
Ear reshape (otoplasty) can also (a) reduce the size and projection of the concha if it is too big and/or (b) establish the normal angle between the concha and the helix.
It is not usually possible to reduce the size of very large ears that have a normal shape due to the complex shape of the ear.
The lONDOn Cosmetic Surgery Centre has successfully performed ear reshapes on hundreds of men over the last 20 years.
Am I Suitable For Ear Reshape Surgery?
The ears are considered to be abnormally protruding if the distance between the side of the head and the most protruding part of the ear is more than 20mm (3/4”).
In addition, as with all cosmetic surgery, it is the patient’s preference and concerns which should be respected as on some occasions people with normally sited ears request that they be pinned back further.
Factors to Consider Before Ear Reshape Surgery
The ears develop fully in early childhood and surgery can be safely performed as early as the fifth year of life to avoid classroom teasing. The operation can be easier to perform when the cartilages are soft and thin and more pliant, as in children.
In severe cases it may sometimes not be possible to achieve an entirely normal appearance.
You will need to take a week off work after an ear reshape operation.
The Ear Reshape Consultation
At the preoperative consultation for ear reshape you will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire before you see the surgeon. After reviewing your medical history, the surgeon will specifically discuss the concerns you have about your ears and what you wish to be altered.
Whilst examining you, the surgeon will record the size, shape and position of your ears before outlining what can be achieved with surgery. The surgeon will then outline what he can achieve with surgery and give you a detailed explanation of the ear reshape procedure, the likely result and the usual course of postoperative events. The surgeon will also answer any questions you may have about the ear reshape operation.
Although there are limitations to the accuracy of the final position of the ears which can be achieved by an ear reshape operation every effort will be made to achieve a result requested by the patient.
At the end of your consultation, you will be issued with detailed written information about the ear reshape operation which you are strongly advised to read carefully at home. If you have any further queries/concerns, these can be discussed with the surgeon at a further consultation.
To find out more about Ear Reshape Surgery, click on any of the links below:
Ear Reshape - The Operation
Ear Reshape - After The Operation
Ear Reshape FAQs
Ear Reshape Gallery
or
Click here to download London Cosmetic Surgery Centre's "Guide to Ear Reshape"
Further Information about Ear Reshape Surgery can be obtained by reading our senior surgeon's latest book "Every Woman's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery". If you would like to purchase a copy, please click here.
