Ear reconstruction surgery, or otoplasty, is a procedure performed that will reshape a person's ear that is either too big or may look like they protrude from the head. Often times, the problem can be caused by an undeveloped center fold of the ear. In addition to a minimized fold, there could be other deformities. And this may make it necessary to perform many procedures on the ear simultaneously, or at the same time. In a number of cases, patients require surgery on the right and left ears so that they will be balanced and symmetrical. Hardly ever is surgery done on just one ear.

Each year thousands of men and women experience tremendous success with these remarkable ear reconstruction procedures. An enhanced self image can help make you feel more comfortable with your body and be more confident with others.

What Happens During the Surgical Procedure?

The ear reconstruction procedure is performed with local anesthetics?intravenous medications or a general anesthetic?that will make you feel at ease throughout the operation. The anesthesiologist will monitor the patient to ensure their safety and comfort.

The incisions are done in the skin folds of the upper lids, or beneath the lower lid eyelashes or right inside the lower eyelid. Because incisions are done in natural skin creases, and these creases are not identical from one side to the other, every patient's incisions end up looking significantly different throughout the healing phase. It takes approximately one and one-half hours for four eyelids. The sensitive sutures are removed three to six days after the operation. These scars are hard to see after the healing has taken place.

Potential Complications

Though complications and undesirable results are not likely to occur from this type of operation, it is important to be aware that they do occur sometimes. Some of the potential complications from ear reconstruction procedure include: bleeding, infection, or nerve damage which can cause temporary or permanent loss of feeling. Other issues include reactions to anesthetic administration and allergic reactions to the medications used during or after the procedure.

Reconstruction of the ear can be one of the most challenging problems facing a surgeon because it demands precise technique in combination with artistic creativity. Microtia is a congenital deformity of the external ear where the external ear is severely deformed. There may be a external ear deformities with a variety of degrees of involvement of the middle and inner ear. This type is commonly seen with patients who have hemifacial microsomia and Treacher-Collins syndrome.

The purpose of this article is not to scare or intimidate you about ear reconstruction, but to make sure that your choice to have this procedure is made out of adequate knowledge of the possible risks of facial cosmetic procedures.

This information has been gathered to familiarize you with the well known facts about otoplasty or ear reconstruction surgery. We encourage you to make sure you have a thorough understanding of what is involved and discuss your questions that may arise with your doctor before you proceed with the procedure known as otoplasty.

Take your time finding someone you can trust, and feel comfortable with, to perform this procedure for you. Make sure it's a highly qualified health professional with expertise in the specialty you are interested in.