Did you know that cosmetic surgery is on the rise? As it becomes more normalized, more people are choosing to go under the knife to “fix” things that they feel self-conscious about.
While many stick with well-known procedures like breast augmentation and rhinoplasty, some people go with something that isn’t as popular as it once was: otoplasty.
But what is an otoplasty procedure, and why would you get one? Read on to learn all about it.
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What Is Otoplasty Surgery
Most people haven’t heard the term “otoplasty” before. Instead, you may know it as “ear pinning.” It’s a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of ears that appear to “stick out” too much.
It used to be more common for parents to choose otoplasty ear surgery for their children. Now, it’s mostly adults who get the procedure.
Otoplasty will not impact your ability to hear. The surgeon only works on the visible part of your ear, so there is no risk of hearing-related complications.
Common Risks
While you won’t have hearing-related complications after your surgery, all surgeries come with risks. It’s important to talk about those risks with your surgeon before the procedure so you can prepare for them and make an informed decision.
You will, most likely, experience some scarring. Your scars will be minimal and they’ll be hidden behind your ears, but they may still be visible.
You may discover that you lose sensation in your ears after the procedure. Most of the time this is temporary, but if it continues beyond the standard healing period, talk to your surgeon about your options.
It’s possible for your procedure to result in an overcorrection. Instead of your ears sticking out, it may look as though they’re pinned back into place.
As with any surgery, you may experience an allergic reaction. This may result in swelling, itchiness, and other skin discomforts. Talk to your doctor if you suspect that you’re experiencing a reaction.
Recovering From Your Otoplasty Procedure
Because this is a simple procedure, your otoplasty recovery time won’t be excessive. When you leave the surgical center, you’ll have your ears bandaged to keep them safe. You can return to your surgeon in several days to have them removed.
You should avoid anything that could put pressure on your ears. This means that you shouldn’t sleep on your side, wear over-ear headphones, or wear shirts with tight necks (unless they button or zip).
Talk to your surgeon about when you can return to normal activities.
While there will be some swelling after your bandages are off, you should still see your results right away.
Is Otoplasty Right for You?
Getting an otoplasty procedure isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great option for anyone who feels self-conscious about the size and appearance of their ears. It’s a simple outpatient procedure with immediate results.
Talk to a plastic surgeon about your potential otoplasty today.
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