Otoplasty (Ear Correction Surgery)
Ear correction surgery (otoplasty) is usually performed to move prominent ears closer to the head (‘ear pinning’) or to reduce the size of large ears. The aim of otoplasty is to produce natural looking ears by reshaping the ear cartilage. This aesthetic result can have a significant positive effect on an individual’s self-esteem and confidence.
While it can be performed on adults, this procedure is most commonly performed on children of primary-school age, as the ear cartilage is softer and easier to manipulate. Otoplasty can be carried out as a day procedure, though in some cases, patients are required to stay overnight. The patient’s ears are usually bandaged for 7-10 days so that they remain still and are held close to the head. We recommend that you sleep with your head elevated on two pillows for the first week. For children, the operation may be best scheduled to take place prior to or during school holidays, to minimise disruption to school hours.
A mild form of pain relief may be required for the first couple of nights after the surgery. The anaesthetist will discuss pain relief with the patient and his/her carers.
Postoperative Care
IN HOSPITAL
You will wake after your surgery with dressings over your surgical site/s. Depending on the nature of the procedure you may also wake up with drainage tubes coming from your surgical site. These are removed with little discomfort when Dr Timms feels they are ready to be removed after your surgery. Nurses looking after you are trained to ensure that your recovery is smooth and that you are as comfortable as possible postoperatively. Our clinic nurse is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have whether you are recovering at home or within the hospital setting.
Dr Timms undertakes regular ward rounds, so he will be monitoring you very closely postoperatively.
Your anaesthetist will have prescribed medication for you to keep you comfortable – you will have pain relief medication prescribed for you for discharge also.
POST OP APPOINTMENTS
An appointment will be made for you to be reviewed by Dr Timms nurse in the rooms 7-10 days after your surgery. This appointment is usually arranged for you at your consultation appointment with Dr Timms. Sometimes it is arranged by the nursing staff that discharge you from hospital. This depends on the nature of your procedure and the duration of your stay in hospital.
WHAT TO WEAR
A soft surgical grade compression garment is usually indicated for breast, body and some facial procedures. These garments are to be worn for 24/7 for six weeks and can be removed for showering. These are specialised garments and we will advise you where to purchase these garments, how to wear the garments and what type you require when you book your procedure with Dr Timms. Many garments are claimable via your private health insurance depending on your level of cover and whether your procedure is medical or cosmetic.
POST OPERATIVE ACTIVITY
You will need to be prepared to avoid driving for a period of anywhere between 1-3 weeks post surgery. The duration of this time depends on the nature of your surgery, medications you are taking for pain relief and your level of confidence behind the wheel post-surgery. It is advisable that you refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 6 weeks.
Most activities can be recommenced after your 6 week review with Dr Timms.
the answer to those looking for re-surgery?
Revision Surgery
If you are unhappy with a procedure you’ve received from another surgeon we are happy to consult and let you know, the best way to correct those procedures using Dr Timm’s excellent surgical expertise.
“Nothing makes me happier than the confident smile, my patients give me, when they see their results”
Dr Ian Timms
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