Otoplasty Sydney
- Cosmetic elective procedure
- Hospital fees may be covered by private health insurance or Medicare
- Day surgery only
- Can be performed under local anaesthetic in the clinic
Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) is an operation performed to alter the size, shape, or position of the ears. It is often performed to correct protruding ears by pinning them closer to the head or to modify the structure of the ears to address asymmetry. This operation is often performed after the age of 4 years, just before starting school.
Adults may also undergo the procedure. There are a number of different methods for addressing concerns about prominent ears but all involve some sort of alteration of the cartilage framework.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics and lifestyle.
Otoplasty photos – Real patients, real results
Patient 02 before and after Otoplasty
What happens at the first consultation?
Cosmetic surgery is a personal choice. In your first otoplasty consultation, Dr Norris will focus on your goals and what you hope to achieve from the procedure. He will also ask you what concerns you about the appearance of your ears and how you would like your ears to look after the surgery. Dr Norris will evaluate your ears by assessing your skin tone and cartilage. He will take photographs for your medical records. Dr Norris will discuss how the operation is performed and where the incisions will be placed. You will then be given a detailed quotation that outlines your options for surgery. If you decide to proceed with surgery, Dr Norris will see you again for a second consultation.
Dr Norris insists that all patients must stop smoking for 2 months before undergoing any type of cosmetic surgery.
How is otoplasty surgery done?
Dr Norris performs otoplasty in fully accredited medical facilities. You can also have this procedure under local anaesthetic if you prefer not to have general sedation. You will be introduced to the anaesthetist that Dr Norris works closely with, who will give you a general anaesthetic. The procedure can take up to 2 hours depending on the extent of the surgery.
What happens after cosmetic ear surgery?
- Otoplasty takes approximately 1-2 hours to perform.
- You will be in the hospital for approximately 4 hours.
- You will remain in surgical bandages for 1 week and a sports sweatband or beanie for 4 weeks.
- A friend or responsible adult must collect you from the hospital as you may not drive home due to the effects of the anaesthetic.
- You will leave with written post-operative instructions and a prescription for pain relief.
- Daily short showers are permitted, ensuring you keep the water off your ears and wounds. Clean your face with a face washer until Dr Norris instructs you to rinse over with water.
- Within the first 2 days after surgery, the discomfort will peak but it can be managed by the prescribed pain medication.
- You might have bruising, swelling, tenderness, and sensitivity. Swelling may vary from patient to patient and should resolve by 3 weeks.
- Light exercise, such as walking, is permitted after 2 weeks. Resume normal daily exercise at 6 weeks as instructed by your surgeon.
- You can return to work after 3 days.
- A follow-up appointment will be booked for you on days 3 and 7 after the operation. This is to check your wounds and change the dressing.
Possible complications
- Haematoma – A collection of blood in the wound area, which is either naturally absorbed into the body or sometimes requires further surgical drainage. Symptoms include swelling, pain, bruising, warmth, or itchiness.
- Infection – Infections occur when microorganisms enter the incision sites. This can be treated with antibiotics.
- Seroma – A build-up of fluid after the surgery that can sometimes require removal via a syringe.
Here at Form & Face, we provide patients with a
Lifetime followup guarantee
This means that we will be there for you far beyond the recovery period.
You can rest assured knowing that you can come to us about any
post-surgical concerns for the rest of your life.