DR. NANCY VAN LAEKEN
604.669.1633
M.D. , F.R.C.S.C
COSMETIC, PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Otoplasty
An otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and refine the appearance of your ears. It addresses concerns like protruding ears – often referred to as outstanding ears– or unevenness in the earlobes, ultimately contributing to a more balanced and symmetrical facial profile. The goal is to achieve a natural, aesthetically pleasing result that complements your overall features. The procedure typically requires a general anesthetic and involves a period of recovery, generally spanning two to three weeks.
Who is a candidate?
At Dr. Van Laeken’s practice, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine candidacy for otoplasty. Our primary focus is on objectively evaluating the ear structure and your overall suitability for surgical correction. Generally, individuals seeking otoplasty present with concerns regarding the prominence or asymmetry of their ears – a noticeable difference in size or angle that impacts their aesthetic perception.
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Certain personal habits can pose contraindications, such as significant smoking history (which can impair healing), uncontrolled diabetes, or a history of keloid scarring. Additionally, we assess your skin’s elasticity – adequate elasticity is necessary for successful tissue repositioning and a stable final result.
Preparation for surgery
Prior to your surgery, you will undergo a thorough consultation where we’ll discuss your goals, review your medical history, and address any questions you may have. We'll provide detailed instructions regarding medications you should avoid, such as blood thinners, and dietary guidelines leading up to the procedure. You’ll also receive specific instructions regarding wound care and post-operative care. A compression bandage will be applied after the surgery to minimize swelling and support the newly repositioned ears.
Procedure
The actual procedure, performed by Dr. Van Laeken, involves making small incisions, usually behind the ear, to access the cartilage and underlying tissues. We then reshape the cartilage using specialized instruments, carefully sculpting the ears to achieve the desired angle and projection. The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures, and a small splint is applied to maintain the new ear shape during the initial healing phase. The entire procedure typically takes approximately one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery
Following the procedure, you will be required to wear a compression bandage for a period of time, as directed by Dr. Van Laeken. You will need to keep your head elevated as much as possible to minimize swelling. Expect some discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. While the initial swelling will subside within a few days, subtle changes in the ear's appearance will continue to occur over the following weeks. You will typically be able to return to light activities within a week and more strenuous activities after two to three weeks.
Potential Complications
As with any surgical intervention, there are inherent risks involved. While Dr. Van Laeken strives to minimize these, it’s essential that all patients are fully informed of the potential complications prior to proceeding with otoplasty.
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This procedure, like any surgical undertaking, is subject to the same range of possibilities. These can include infection, bleeding, and instances of delayed or incomplete healing, potentially necessitating further treatment and, in rare cases, additional surgical procedures.
Hypersensitivity / Numbness
Sensation in the affected area may be altered temporarily or permanently.
Infection
Signs of infection are localized heat, redness, fever, and pain. Dr. Van Laeken can prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Occasionally the area will need to be drained.
Necrosis
Tissue loss that can occur when blood supply to the skin and tissue is compromised.
Seroma
Serum can accumulate underneath the skin. On occasion it is necessary to have the fluid drained.
Swelling
There can be persistent swelling in the affected area.
To find out more or to book your consultation.