Otoplasty corrects protruding ears. The protrusion most often comes from a missing fold in the cartilage or from an angle that is too open between the ear and the skull. The procedure reshapes the cartilage and brings the ear closer to the head. It is intended for children, from the age when the ear has finished growing and when the request comes from the child, and for adults at any age.
How the procedure unfolds
In practice
- In consultation, I analyse the request and I examine the ears.
- I look for the origin of the protrusion: a poorly folded cartilage, a conch that is too deep, or both.
- For a child, I make sure that the request comes from the child.
- I collect information concerning the state of health.
- We take photographs for the medical record.
- I give all the information about the surgery and I give an estimate.
A second consultation is mandatory before any procedure. You must stop smoking at least one month before the surgery.
Surgery
Otoplasty is performed under local anaesthesia, local anaesthesia with sedation, or general anaesthesia, depending on age and request. For children, general anaesthesia is most often chosen.
The procedure takes place at the Clinique Pasteur, in Toulouse, on an outpatient basis. The patient goes home the same day.
The principle is to reshape the cartilage of the ear. Depending on the case, I recreate the missing fold with stitches, I reduce the depth of the conch and I bring the ear closer to the skull. Both ears are most often treated in the same operation for a symmetrical result.
The scar is hidden behind the ear, in the groove between the ear and the skull. In general it is barely visible.
The procedure most often lasts one to two hours. A dressing wraps the head for a few days. An elastic headband then takes over.
Postoperative effects
Pain is in general moderate. A simple painkiller is most often enough.
Swelling and bruising are frequent in the first days. The ears can be sensitive or numb for several weeks.
The dressing is removed at the practice in the following days. A headband is then worn day and night, then only at night, for several weeks. It protects the ears and holds the correction.
One to two weeks away from school or social life is in general enough. Contact sports are not advised for several weeks.
The final result can be judged after several months, when the swelling has gone. I see the patient again in a follow-up consultation to check the evolution.
What to do to optimize the result?
- Wear the headband as instructed, especially at night.
- Avoid knocks and contact sports during the advised period.
- Do not smoke before and after the surgery.
- Protect the scars from the sun during the first year.
- Moisturize the skin behind the ears with the recommended product.
Social security coverage
Otoplasty can be covered by social security in some cases, in particular for children and teenagers. A prior approval request may be needed. We discuss this in consultation. Without coverage, the procedure remains at your expense.
Pricing
From 900 euros, on estimate given at the end of the consultation.
The SOFCPRE information sheet for your procedure is given to you during the consultation.