This surgery is very popular for children starting at the age of four. These are very formative years and prominent ears can be a source of emotional pain from being teased and ridicule by other children. However, children are not the only ones that can have this surgery. Many adults turn to this elective procedure to enhance their look and to give themselves a boost of confidence.

Like all types of plastic surgery, otoplasty should be done by a skilled and qualified cosmetic surgeon. These surgeons spend several years in medical school and also complete an internship specifically for otoplasty.

In order to find a qualified surgeon, a person may consider consulting with his or her physician to find a competent referral in the area. If your physician is unaware of a surgeon, who can complete this type of procedures, a person can turn to the Internet to find a plastic surgery association, which list qualified practitioners in your area.

Going through an association can assure the patient that the surgeon has met and is maintaining high standards to maintain membership in the group.There are other types of discomforts that may accompany this type of surgery. The patient may experience numbness during or after the surgery. This, however, should resolve on its own.

Also, headaches are possible, which can be relieved by over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Also, swelling may occur. To reduce swelling, keep your head elevated (even while sleeping) for several days.

Although otoplasty is a straight forward procedure, there are still complications that can arise. First, with any surgery, it is possible for the patient to develop a blood clot in the cartilage area of the ear. Often, this problem is self-resolving.

However, occasionally, the surgeon needs to go back in and remove it with a needle. Also, another complication is developing an infection. This complication is possible in all types of surgeries, because the skin naturally forms a barrier against bacteria.

When the skin is cut (accidentally or surgically) it provides easy access to blood and other tissue that is idea for bacteria growth. Although infections are possible, taking antibiotics is a simple and common remedy. It is important to keep an eye out for signs of infection, because this type of complication rarely shows up immediately after surgery. Often it takes a day or two for the signs to develop.

This can be difficult because the ear may be red and swollen from the surgery. However, if the swelling increases and the redness spread, these may be signs of infection. Another common sign of infection is pain as well as puss-like drainage from the incision.

If you have any of these signs or symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately. He will be able to prescribe medication to resolve the infection. As with any surgery, there is bound to be some discomfort, but with modern medicines, these can be minimized for better outcomes.