Ears

Various causes can trigger the desire for a corrective ear surgery. Protruding ears are often a reason for teasing both children and adults and can sometimes even lead to social exclusion. It is natural that ears enlarge with age. Wearing heavy earrings can often lead to a deformation, sometimes even to avulsion of the earlobe.

Cases of ear deformation due to an accident or tumour are common. Of course such accident or illness-related deformations can be corrected, as we have also been active in the field of reconstruction for years and have carried out a large number of reconstructive procedures to date.

The ear shows a peculiarity in its construction, which can hardly be found in any other area of the body. The cartilaginous frame is only covered by a very thin perichondrium (a very thin layer of skin), which adheres directly to the skin. The subcutaneous fat layer is largely missing on the auricle, which is why the visible skin can barely be moved. This must be taken into consideration during surgical procedures.

The surgical access point is generally behind the ear. Only if this is insufficient, the surgeon will use an alternative access point on the front, in the inside of the ear. On no other part of the body do scars show a greater tendency to fade completely. Which is why these scars become more or less invisible over time.

It is important to tell the doctor what you want to change specifically and about your expectations of the results. During a consultation you will be shown what is possible and feasible, as well as informed about alternatives and additional treatments which will be necessary to come as close as possible to the desired results.

The corrective procedures are performed on an outpatient basis in most cases using a local anaesthetic.

Goal of the operation

To give the ears a natural shape and size.

Risks

As with any other surgery, there are risks involved. Ear surgeries may lead to bleeding and/or infection of the wound. By adhering to the doctor’s instructions and refraining from any physical exertion for a few days after the operation, the risks are almost negligible.

Post Surgery:

Depending on the size and scope of the surgery, the wound dressing should be worn for 2 to 4 days, after which it is replaced by a spray dressing. From latest this point onwards, there will be hardly any external evidence that surgery has taken place. Rest is necessary for as long as the wound dressing is worn, so that the risk of bleeding or infection is minimized. You should avoid intensive exposure to the sun, sun beds, sauna and competitive sport for the next four to six weeks. It may also be necessary to wear a headband during the night for several weeks, to prevent unwanted repositioning while asleep.

Our range of corrective procedures for ears includes:

• Earlobe repositioning
• Earlobe reduction
• Corrective ear lobe surgery
• Tumour removal and concealing earlobe defects
• Follow-up operations to repair previous external procedures with unfavourable results