Pinnaplasty & Otoplasty Sydney – Ear Correction Surgery by Dr. Kernohan
Otoplasty or Pinnaplasty is ear plastic surgery that can change the shape, position, and size of your ears.
The ear procedure might be suitable for those with ears that significantly protrude, are misshaped or out of proportion with their face. The procedure can be performed at any age after the ears have reached their full size.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Michael Kernohan is an experienced plastic surgeon and performs otoplasty in Sydney’s Southwest Suburbs and the Southern Highlands.
CLICK to Download Dr Michael Kernohan Facelift Surgery Guide
Why Get an Otoplasty?
Otoplasty might be a suitable procedure for you if:
- Your ears significantly protrude from your head
- Your ears are out of proportion with the rest of your face.
- You are not satisfied with the results of previous ear surgery
Benefits of Ear Surgery or Otoplasty
Ear pinning surgery, also known as otoplasty, offers several potential benefits for individuals concerned about the appearance or functionality of their ears. Some of the potential benefits, include:
1. Ear Features
Otoplasty can reshape overly large or protruding ears, bringing them into better proportion with the rest of the face. It can also alter the appearance of cauliflower ears, cupped or folded ears
2. Address congenital ear deformities
Otoplasty can address congenital ear deformities, such as lop ear, shell ear, or cupped ear, improving both aesthetics and function.
3. Restore Functionality
In cases where ear shape affects hearing or earlobe function, otoplasty can improve these functional aspects.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific concerns and determine if otoplasty is the right option for you or your child.
About the Otoplasty Procedure
There are several kinds of Otoplasty procedures:
1. Ear Enlargement:
The procedure may be suitable for those with small or underdeveloped ears. In this case, ear augmentation is used to increase the size of ears to match the rest of the face.
2. Ear Pinning:
This particular type of otoplasty may be suitable for those with protruding ears. It involves drawing the ears closer to the head and ‘pinning’ them.
3. Ear Reduction:
The procedure may be suitable for you if you have Macrotia (a condition when your ears are larger than the rest of your face). Ear reduction is done to reduce the size of the ears.
4. Ear repairs for trauma, stretched or ripped earlobes
Otoplasty can also help repair damaged ears.
Otoplasty Surgery Consultation with Dr. Kernohan
Like any other plastic surgery, the procedure will begin with an initial consultation with Dr Kernohan. During the consultation, the following elements will be taken into account:
- Medical history review
Any good surgeon will begin the consultation by briefly going over your medical history. Be ready to answer questions about any illnesses, allergies, and surgeries you have had in the past.
- Examination
Next comes the ear examination. This is when Dr Kernohan will examine your ears thoroughly; placement, size, and shape. He will also take measurements and pictures.
- Discussion & Listening
Dr Kernohan will discuss your issues, your expectations, inform you about the procedure, costs, and any potential risks.
- Questions
Dr Kernohan will conclude the consultation by asking you if you have any questions. Use this opportunity to clarify all your concerns. Don’t be hesitant and make sure that you are completely satisfied.
How is Otoplasty Performed?
Otoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Ear surgery can take from 1 to 3 hours depending on your unique requirements and complexity of the surgery.
The surgery is typically done under local anaesthesia but in some cases, general anaesthesia may be used. The technique used for the surgery depends on the type of otoplasty surgery. Generally speaking, the otoplasty involves the following steps:
- Dr Kernohan will create an incision on the back/inside the folds of your ears
- Then he will manipulate your ear tissue (it includes removal of skin/cartilage, folding of ears, shaping ears with the help of permanent stitching or cartilage grafting)
- Dr Kernohan will conclude the surgery by closing incisions with the stitches and bandaging
Recovery after Otoplasty Ear Surgery
Otoplasty recovery can take a total of two to three weeks. It is important to take proper care of yourself during this time. After your procedure, Dr Kernohan will place the dressing over your ears. It is important to keep your incisions clean and dry at all times. Additionally, you need to pay attention to some things such as:
- Do not touch or scratch your ears excessively
- Sleep on your back, make sure you aren’t resting on your ears
- Wear loose front-opening clothing items so that you do not have to pull them over your head and potentially knock your ears.
Please note that if Dr Kernohan chooses to use non-absorbable stitches, you will need to see him to remove them when the incisions heal.
What to do After Otoplasty Ear Surgery Procedure?
Here are a few instructions you need to adhere to when it comes to post-surgical care:
1. Keep your head elevated
In order to facilitate proper blood flow, you must keep your head in a slightly elevated position. Sleeping in a recliner or keeping a few pillows stacked underneath your head always helps. It will help reduce the risk of excessive inflammation or redness.
2. Keep your head cool and dry
You will have to wear bandages for a while after otoplasty. It is important to keep your head cool and dry. Keep the room temperature cool and avoid using heat tools such as blow driers and straighteners for a while. If your head feels too hot at any point, use a cool pack.
3. Take medications regularly
Dr Kernohan will prescribe you medications to alleviate pain and discomfort. Make sure that you are taking them regularly to help with wound healing and avoid any infections.
4. Eat a healthy diet
Make sure to eat a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, nutrients, complex carbs, healthy fats, and proteins.
5. Take care of your dressings and headbands
Surgical dressings and bands are not only meant to keep your ears protected but also keep them in place. Moving them around can interfere with the recovery process. It can leave you at a higher risk of infections and can cause serious injury to the ears. Hence, it is important to follow all the instructions provided by Dr Kernohan.
More Suggestions for Otoplasty Recovery Period
6. Do not touch your ears
Avoid touching and rubbing your ears excessively. Avoid rubbing them at all costs and try to avoid all sorts of accidental rubs. Be extremely cautious of your surroundings and try not to hit your ears against anything.
7. Quit smoking
It is important to avoid smoking at all costs as it can hinder the recovery process. Smoking can prevent oxygen from reaching the injured tissues and can lead to delayed wound healing, skin necrosis and other unwanted complications.
8. Rest well – Avoid intense activities and exercise
Your body needs proper time to heal and recover. Avoid all sorts of intense activities such as heavy lifting, exercise and all sorts of strenuous activities. You can resume your normal exercise program when your surgeon gives you the all clear.
9. Avoid washing your hair for a while
As discussed earlier, it is important to keep your incisions clean and dry. Avoid using shampoo and other hair care products for at least a week after getting otoplasty as it can lead to complications and even infection.
Potential Risks and Complications after Otoplasty Ear Surgery
There are always certain risks and concerns associated with undergoing surgery. Some of these potential risks include; infection, poor wound healing, asymmetry, changes in skin sensitivity and more.
Find out more details about the potential risks and complications of plastic surgery.
How Much is Ear Surgery in Sydney?
The Otoplasty price in Sydney varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the type of doctor performing the procedure. The cost of the procedure varies due to factors such as location, surgeon experience and surgery specifics.
Medicare may cover Otoplasty if you meet the strict requirements and the maximum age.
Please email or phone the clinic for an estimated price for your ear surgery.
How to Choose the Right Ear Surgeon in Sydney
Here are four important qualities you need to look for in an ear surgeon:
- Experience – Choose a surgeon based on experience and qualification. An experienced surgeon that has performed many otoplasties.
- Results – Always ask a surgeon to show you before and after pictures of past clients who has undergone the same procedure. This will give you an idea of how your results will look.
- Hospital privileges – Make sure that your surgeon has accredited hospital privileges to perform the procedure. It demonstrates a good reputation in the medical community and says a lot about the capabilities of your surgeon.
- Personal attention – A consultation will tell you a lot about the surgeon. You will have an idea of whether you want to proceed with the surgeon or not. Make sure the surgeon answers all your questions and you feel comfortable going forward with them.
Ear Surgery – Otoplasty FAQs
Here is a list of frequently asked questions about otoplasty: