Pinnaplasty involves adjusting the position, size and shape of one’s ears. It is a cosmetic surgery and by itself, does not provide any improvement in hearing.
Some choose to have a pinnaplasty to correct a structural abnormality. In some cases, people born without their ears opt to get it done to have a normal appearance. Hence, this form of surgery has both an aesthetic appeal and a functional one.
What is pinnaplasty?
Surgery is performed on the visible portion of the outer ear, called the auricle or pinna. The pinna constitutes folds of cartilage covered in skin. It begins to develop before birth and continues for years after birth. In case the pinna does not develop properly, one may choose to have a pinnaplasty to correct the shape, size and position of your ears.
There are various types of pinnaplasty surgeries:
- Ear Augmentation- Pinnaplasty surgery is an option for patients with small or underdeveloped ears (Microtia). It helps to increase the size of the ears and is usually done in stages.
- Ear pinning- This involves pulling the ears closer to the head. Patients who feel their ears protrude too far from the head may choose to have this done.
- Ear reduction- The condition called Macrotia is where the ears are on the larger side. Patients with this condition may choose to have a pinnaplasty to reduce the size of their ears.
Who is a good candidate for pinnaplasty?
Good candidates for pinnaplasty include:
- Patients over the age of 5 years – This is because, by this time, the pinna has reached 90% its adult size.
- Patients must have good overall health as underlying conditions increase the risk of complications during or after the procedure.
- Some people may have already had a procedure done in the past. However, due to unsatisfactory results, choose to have another procedure.
What is involved in the procedure?
The first step would involve sitting with the consultant and discussing the treatment plan. It allows the patient to talk to the doctor and clear whatever doubts they may have. The doctor would examine the ear to devise the correct measurements for the patient.
The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and takes around 2 to 3 hours. Pinnaplasty usually involves various stages of surgery. The first stage is where cartilage graft is harvested from the ribs and placed under the skin of the ear. The second stage involves lifting the cartilage and ensuring the protrusion from the head is correct. The third stage requires shaping the ear according to the patient’s facial structure. In some cases, a fourth stage may be needed that involves further improving the shape of the ear.
Risks
Just like with any other surgery, the risk of general anaesthesia is present. However, the chances of complications arising from anaesthesia are rare. Other risk factors include localised infection, bleeding at the surgical site, pain, swelling, graft rejection, and ears may seem sore with redness around the area.
Post-Operative Management
Usually, patients would be kept in the hospital for two days after the procedure. The doctor may insert a drain under the skin to prevent fluid accumulation. Upon removal of the drain, the patient can go home.
Care needs to be taken to let the ear heal properly. Hence, make sure not to sleep on the operated ear and preferably use buttoned clothes to prevent pulling clothes over the ears.
Routine follow-ups are a must so that the stitches can be removed and the doctor can assess your healing. Your doctor may require you to come for regular check-ups for three months. It allows the surgeon to judge and plan for the next stage of the pinnaplasty surgery.