What are Prominent Ears?
Although the perception of a large ear is usually created when protruding ears are mentioned, the problem is actually not the size of the ear but the cartilage structure. Inadequate folds in the ear make the upper ear appear wider and larger than it is. The angle between the ear and the head widens because there is no fold. Therefore, the solution to the protruding ear problem is not by making the ear smaller, but by giving the ear the folds it should have.
Ear anomalies are mostly due to congenital causes. It is a condition where the angle of the ear to the skull is congenitally wide, and is noticeable on the top or bottom or both sides. Since the folds that narrow the width of the ear in the ear cartilage are insufficient, the ear appears larger than it is. This appearance is more obvious from behind.
Children's ear development is complete at the age of 6. If a deformation is observed in the ear when the child reaches the age of 6, expecting this condition to go away on its own would be unrealistic optimism. However, if the child is not bothered by this condition, we definitely do not recommend that the family insist on surgery. If the child has a loss of self-confidence due to the problem of protruding ears, or if they have socialization problems or are hesitant, it is important for the family to be highly aware of this issue.
Children can have prominent ear surgery starting at the age of 6. There is no upper limit, anyone can choose this solution at any age they wish.
This operation, called otoplasty, does not require general anesthesia. It can be easily performed with the help of local anesthesia or sedation. The area is entered through an almost invisible incision, usually made behind the ear, and the necessary folds are formed.
The reason for the appearance of prominent ears is usually due to inadequate folds in the ear. In other words, the position and angle of the ear relative to the skull is as it should be. Just adding a fold is enough. In this case, the procedure is called "modified kaye". The modified kaye method is to enter the area with needle holes and perform the correction in this way. In other words, no incision is required.
There are some points to be careful about after the surgery:
- Both ears are bandaged in a way that will create pressure on them
- Pain is felt in the area for a day or two after the surgery
- Swelling and redness disappear within 5 days at most
- It is important to use bandages for up to one and a half months
- It is especially recommended to use bandages while sleeping
- Avoid heavy sports and activities that will strain the surgery area before complete healing
There are different application techniques for prominent ear surgery. Almost all of these methods are aimed at keeping the scar to a minimum and in an invisible area. In applications performed with only needles without making an incision, no scars are left. In procedures performed with an incision in front of or behind the ear, an extremely small, imperceptible scar is left. Since it is mostly performed from the back of the ear, this scar is hidden in a place where you and those around you cannot see it.
If you follow the instructions given by your doctor after the surgery, the results of the surgery will be permanent and will please you forever.