Auriculoplasty

Situated at the outer face contour, the ears are a major factor in defining facial proportionality and its harmonious profile. Traditionally we think of the ears just in their function to analyse aural impressions; its form though is an important aesthetic component. As such the ears more often bring a sense of embarrassment, not of satisfaction. Certain ear proportions are sociably accepted and every departure from the norm can affect self-image and confidence.
If you are bothered by the size or shape of your ears, then cosmetic ear surgery, or auriculoplasty, may be right for you. It will improve the form of the ears and will reposition the auricle, enhancing facial harmony and self-confidence.

This brochure presents an overview of ear surgery. The best way to learn how surgery of the ears can help fulfill your personal goals is a consultation with a plastic surgeon.
When considering plastic surgery, make sure you know the following:.

Before the operation make sure that:

• Your surgeon is a licensed physician to practice medicine in the country you are having the procedure
• Your surgeon has completed extensive training and examinations in plastic surgery
• Your surgeon is a member of a national plastic surgery society that is recognized by the International Confederation of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (IPRAS)

What is cosmetic surgery of the ears?

Cosmetic surgery of the ears, or auriculoplasty, is a procedure to improve the form of the ears. Specific features addressed in cosmetic surgery of the ears include:

• Ear size doesn't correspond with facial features
• Some parts of the ear are not proportionate to other ear components
• The angle between the ear and the cranium is bigger than usual - "drooping ears"
• An asymmetry between the ears referring to their size, form and position
• Traumatic or congenital absence of an ear part or the whole ear

These features are generally due to heredity, however they can be caused by injury. In most cases, the characteristics of the ears are not the only factors contributing to facial imbalance. The facial structure may also contribute to imbalanced facial proportions. Facial disharmony could be enhanced by the skull form, the hair-style, racial and ethnic characteristics.
Cosmetic ear surgery doesn't improve ears functionality. The effect is mostly cosmetic. Ear surgery is best performed when facial growth is complete, around the age of 16-18.

Good candidates for this procedure are:

• Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing
• Non-smokers
• Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improvement

Where do I begin?

A consultation with your plastic surgeon is the first step to learn how ear surgery can improve the appearance and proportions of your ears and facial harmony. A consultation is designed to fully educate you in a non-pressured environment, and will include:

• A discussion of your primary concerns and an evaluation of your individual case
• The options available for surgery of the ears
• The likely outcomes of surgery and any risks or potential complications
• The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon

Your plastic surgeon will also answer your questions.

Evaluation

Overall health and personal outlook can greatly impact the outcome of ears surgery. These will be carefully evaluated in consultation. Be candid about your desire to improve your appearance, your medical history, prior surgeries, allergies, and medical treatments. The success of your procedure, safety and overall satisfaction requires that you:

• Honestly share your concerns
• Fully disclose health history, current medications, the use of vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs
• Commit to following all of your plastic surgeons instructions precisely

Safety

By making the decision to consult with a plastic surgeon and following all the instructions given, you are taking important steps in helping to assure your safety.
Your plastic surgeon should have completed surgical training and examinations in plastic surgery which uniquely qualifies them to perform cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and entire body.

My ear surgery

Cosmetic surgery of the ears is an individualized procedure that takes into account all the specific characteristics that contribute to the overall appearance of the ears and its relation to other facial features. Your plastic surgeon will carefully evaluate your individual case and goals for improvement to determine specific features to address through ear surgery. Appropriate techniques will then be defined and may include:

• Reducing the size of the auricle or its components
• Adjusting the angle between the ear and the cranium
• Reconstruction of the ear or of some of its components, using surrounding skin or silicone implants

If you desire more symmetrical ears, keep in mind that everyones face is asymmetric to some degree. Results may not be completely symmetric, although the goal is to create facial balance and correct proportion. Facial augmentation with implants of the chin, cheeks and jaw may further enhance your outcome.

Preparing for surgery

Your plastic surgeon will carefully explain the surgical procedure recommended for your specific case. Prior to surgery, you will be given specific instructions that may include:

• Pre-surgical considerations, diagnostic testing and medications
• Day of surgery instructions and medications
• Specific information related to the use of anesthesia
• Postoperative care and follow-up

In addition, you will be asked to sign consent forms to assure your plastic surgeon that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo and any risks or potential complications.
The risks associated with ears surgery include skin or cartilage infection, follow-up bleeding of the incision sites; asymmetry of the auricles; low skin sensitivity in some ear parts. Surgery of the ears is a procedure in which aesthetic outcomes can be unpredictable, and in some cases a second procedure may be necessary to fully achieve your goals. These risks and others as well as those associated with anesthesia will be discussed prior to your consent.
It is important that you address all your questions directly with your plastic surgeon. It is natural to feel some anxiety, whether excitement for the anticipated outcomes or preoperative stress. Discuss these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

What to expect

Surgery of the ears may be performed in your plastic surgeons office-based surgical facility, an ambulatory surgical facility or a hospital. The decision for anesthesia will be based on the requirements of your specific procedure and considerations of patient and surgeon preference. Your plastic surgeon and the assisting staff will fully attend to your comfort and safety.

Following surgery

Once your procedure is completed, a bandage will likely be placed around your ears to protect the ears from accidental trauma during initial healing. Before you are released following surgery, you and an accompanying family member, friend or caregiver will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for the surgical site
• Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
• When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

Progress and healing

The dressings will be removed on the following day. The elastic bandage that protects the ears has no contribution to the ears form. It has to be on 15 days round-the-clock and 15 more days just during sleep.
Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling continues to dissipate and the improved appearance of your ears begins to become apparent. Diligent sun protection is recommended as you continue to heal. You must also protect your ears from injury during any physical activity for the next 4 to 6 months.

Results and outlook

The outcome of your ears surgery will appear gradually from 3 to 6 months. In general, the results of ear surgery are permanent; however, ears must be protected from trauma and injuries, especially from the back of the neck to face ones.
You should be pleased with the improved balance among your facial features resulting from surgery of the ears. Asymmetry, if any, will be in acceptable levels. Achieving your personal goals for an enhanced appearance will likely increase your self-confidence.