Ear surgery
Otoplasty is the surgical correction, or "pinning back", of protruding ears, also known as "bat ears" or "prominent ears". This procedure is designed to set or pin back one or both ears closer to the head so that they are no longer prominent.
Prominent ears can be a concern to people of all ages, from young children to adults. Children especially can be affected psychologically due to the embarrassment from teasing, etc. by other children. It is for this reason most children will undergo an Otoplasty procedure prior to the commencement of school.
Before and after photographs
The New Zealand Medical Council has banned New Zealand doctors from using "Before and After" photographs in any form of public communication, including websites. The only permissible use of such photographs under the New Zealand Medical Council rules is during a medical consultation.
Dr Masters will show you examples of previous patient's "Before and After" photographs during your consultation.
The Procedure
This surgery may involve one or both ears with correction to specific areas such as the upper or lower ear (pole) or the entire ear.
Otoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under a general anaesthetic for children, and either local or general anaesthetic in teenagers and adults. The procedure takes approximately one hour depending on the extent and difficulty of the correction.
The Surgery
Mr Masters will mark out the areas of concern previously discussed in detail at the pre-operative consultations.
Local anaesthetic is injected to minimize bleeding as well as to help with the pain management post-operatively.
The most common technique involves incisions made at the back of the ear. Cartilage may be removed or re-shaped and the cartilage is then secured to its new position to bring the ear closer to the head. The incision is closed with dissolving sutures. A compression dressing will be applied for between five and ten days.
Approximate costs
Otoplasty usually starts from $5,000 or $3,500 for a single ear. The exact price depends upon what needs to be done and whether local anaesthetic or a general anaesthetic is required. Dr Masters will give you an exact quote following your consultation.
Back to Top
|
