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Does the operation require a general anaesthetic?
In older children and adults, it is possible to perform the surgery entirely
under local anaesthetic. This is done by blocking the main nerves that supply
sensation to the external ear. Patients undergoing the procedure will still
be awake and can hear the operation being performed. For this procedure and
overall comfort, I would recommend a general anaesthetic administered by
a specialist anaesthetist.
What is done during the operation?
The operation involves making a small excision of skin behind the ear. The
ear is then reshaped, and the projection from the head reduced, using a combination
of cartilage scoring and stitches. The type of procedure you require will
be discussed with Dr. Belt during your pre operative consultations. This
surgery does not interfere with hearing.
What happens after the operation ?
Most cases are performed as a day case. No drains are used. A bandage is
placed around the ears and remains in place for one week. At one week these
dressings are removed. Some slight bruising and swelling is normally present
at this time but should settle over a couple of weeks. The skin stitches
used behind the ear are dissolvable and do not need to be removed.
Dr. Belt encourages you to wear a tennis sweat band over your ears at night
for six weeks. You should avoid wearing caps for three months.
What are the potential complications?
The risks will be discussed with you in detail before you consent to the
operation. The risks can be broken down into general risks associated with
any operation, and those specific to otoplasty.
General operative risks include anaesthetic complications, bruising, bleeding,
infection, wound breakdown and abnormal scarring such as keloid scarring.
Specific complications include swelling and bruising to the ears, wound infection,
bleeding from the wound and from under the skin, collections of blood or
fluid under the skin, pressure from the dressings on the ears, tenderness
or temporary numbness to the ears, skin surface irregularities, loss of the
corrected shape, recurrence of the prominence and the need for revisional
surgery.
What costs are involved ?
Dr Belt’s surgical fee
Theatre fee / day bed, and overnight bed if not a day case
Specialist anaesthetists fee
Rebates are available through Medicare and Private Health Funds. Please
contact Dr. Belt’s rooms for a personalised quote and for further information
to be sent to you.
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