Otoplasty

Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reshaping the form and/or size of the ears, to be proportional and harmonious with the rest of the face. Similarly, some overly long or torn earlobes may require surgical correction.

Protruding ears are generally due to genetic factors and can be present from birth. They often result from insufficient or excessive development of the ear cartilage. Clinically, this is observed by an excessive angle between the ear’s concha and the skull, or hypertrophy of the concha pushing the ear forward. The second pertinent aspect is the lack of antihelical fold. Protruding ears are defined by the presence of an angle greater than 30° between the ear’s auricle and the back of the head, or when the distance between the skull and the helix is too large.

Before an otoplasty, it’s essential to follow certain precautions to ensure the proper course of the intervention. The preoperative consultation allows a thorough evaluation by the plastic surgeon of your ears and face, in order to determine a personalized care plan. Additional medical examinations may be necessary to check your health status and eliminate any potential contraindications. It is strongly recommended to stop smoking several weeks before and after the surgery, as smoking can affect healing. Finally, certain medications, such as aspirin or anticoagulants, should be avoided to reduce the risk of bleeding during the operation.

There are many surgical otoplasty techniques. They can be confusing, but they can be simplified by classifying them according to their maneuvers, as indicated below:

• Creation of the antihelical fold (Mustardé technique, “cartilage scoring,” Earfold…)
• Correcting excess concha (Furnas technique, …)
• Correcting the position of the auricle (concho-mastoid sutures,…)
• Correction of the position or shape of the earlobe

Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Anesthesia: Local +/- sedation
Hospitalization: not required
Time off work: about 7 days

Otoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, mostly under local anesthesia. It can be accompanied by sedation for the patient’s comfort (or in children). It lasts between 1h and 1h30. The scar is hidden in the fold behind the ear. A first slightly compressive dressing (helmet-like) is applied in the operating room. It will be removed the day after the intervention, then wearing a protective headband is recommended day and night for 3 weeks. You can go home the same day. A medical leave of 3-7 days is recommended for a good recovery.

The post-procedure after undergoing an otoplasty is relatively simple. Some precautions are required to ensure proper healing:

• Pain is moderate and can be well-managed with analgesics
• Wearing a compression band is advised day and night for the first 3 weeks, then only at night for a few more weeks
• Intense physical activities should be avoided for about a month to ensure optimal healing
• Postoperative consultations with the surgeon are necessary to monitor healing and remove stitches if needed

After otoplasty, the ears are positioned symmetrically and proportionally to the rest of the face, significantly enhancing overall harmony. The aesthetic improvement is accompanied by major psychological benefits. Patients regain a positive self-image, well-being and improved quality of life.

The price of otoplasty at Leman Aesthetic Clinic starts at CHF 4,000. This price may vary according to the patient’s specific needs and the techniques used. A personalized estimate is drawn up during your initial consultation.