OTOPLASTY INFORMATION FORM
WHAT IS OTOPLASTY?
Otoplasty, as the name suggests, refers to ear aesthetics. It involves reshaping the outer ear, or auricle, to make it appear more natural and aesthetically pleasing.
HOW IS OTOPLASTY DONE?
Ear pinning surgery (otoplasty) is not a painful procedure. Pre-operative sedation and local anesthesia ensure a painless and calm surgery. The patient remains fully conscious and awake during the procedure, allowing them to inspect the final result using a mirror once the surgery is completed. The ear remains bandaged for about 4 days post-surgery, and there is no need for at-home dressing changes. The bandages are typically removed on the 4th or 5th day (for patients from out of town or abroad, it is such a simple procedure that they can even remove the bandages themselves at any medical facility or even at home).
HOW LONG DOES OTOPLASTY TAKE?
The operation usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. It is a relatively straightforward procedure with high patient satisfaction rates, requiring minimal anesthesia.
SHOWERING AFTER OTOPLASTY?
Once the dressing is removed (usually after 3 days), patients can safely take showers.
POST-OPERATIVE CARE FOR OTOPLASTY?
Following the doctor’s advice, patients can take showers, avoiding excessive heat and keeping the dressings dry. For the first 2 weeks, strenuous physical activities should be avoided, and patients should prioritize rest. The date of the first follow-up appointment will be communicated by the doctor.
WHEN DO THE STITCHES DISSOLVE AFTER OTOPLASTY?
The stitches used during the surgery are of the self-dissolving type and typically dissolve within 1 week. Some swelling may persist for up to 10 days after ear surgery. Activities that may bend the ear should be avoided for about 1.5 months. Most adults can return to work within an average of 5-7 days.
RECOVERY PROCESS AFTER OTOPLASTY?
Incisions made during the operation generally do not require stitches, and the recovery process typically lasts a maximum of 1-2 weeks. Patients can shower after 1-2 days, and they can usually return to their routine activities within a week after the surgery.
