Otoplasty in Sydney With A/Prof Damian Marucci

Otoplasty is an ear reshaping procedure and is most commonly performed to set back ears that stick out too far. The underlying condition, “prominent ears”, is also known another less politically correct term – “bat ears”. Most commonly this affects both ears. Sometimes only one ear is prominent, leading to an asymmetry that can make patients self-conscious. Childhood can be a trying time enough, without the extra burden of bullying or teasing due to prominent ears. If you or your child has prominent or asymmetrical ears and it is causing issues, an otoplasty may help.

What is otoplasty?

Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping or “pinning back the ears”, is a surgical procedure to alter the shape, position, or size of an individual’s ears. This is often done for individuals whose ears protrude excessively from the side of the head or who may have uneven ears. Most often, the appearance of larger ears is a genetic trait that is passed down from one child to the next. For some individuals, the protrusion is caused by an injury that has damaged the outer ear, resulting in new positioning and misshape of the ear.

Am I a good candidate for ear surgery?

If you are a nonsmoker and are of good physical health, otoplasty in Sydney may be a good option for you. The surgery is most often performed on children over the age of 6 because their ear’s cartilage is softer and easier to mould. Dr Marucci will only perform otoplasty on a child when they are “on board” and wanting the surgery. Even though teenage and adult cartilage does not allow the same level of moulding, the surgery can successfully be performed on older individuals as well, as Dr Marucci has done on numerous occasions.

What should I expect during otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a low risk and common procedure that Dr. Marucci performs frequently. Often times, both ears will undergo otoplasty to create a more even look. Surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic. The specific surgical technique will vary with the particular deformity present. Dr Marucci breaks the deformity down into three basic issues – whether the upper ear is unfolder, whether the “bowl” of the ear is too large and whether the whole ear is too prominent. Dr Marucci folds the upper ear back with sutures, a large conchal bowl is reduced and the total ear prominence is address with stiches that hold the ear closer to the side of the head. The wound of the back of the ear is closed with dissolving sutures and the patient is placed in a head bandage. The head bandage remains dry and in place for one week, after which time the patient can shower normally. There are no stitches to be removed.

What is the recovery process after otoplasty like?

Special bulky bandages will be used that help maintain the new position of the ear. These bandages should be left untouched for a week. After the bandages are removed, you can expect some bruising and swelling. The ears may be tender to the touch, which is completely normal. Further head bandages are not used, although patients are requested to wear a John McEnroe style head band at night for a few weeks. Dr. Marucci will provide you with any additional instructions and necessary medication once the operation is complete.

Because of the position of the incision, scarring is typically not visible. You may notice that the ears appear uneven following the first few days of surgery, but they will adjust as the final contour becomes more evident.

If you are considering otoplasty in Sydney for you or your child, contact the office of A/Prof Damian Marucci today. His friendly staff is available to answer any questions and to schedule a consultation at your convenience. You can rest easy knowing you are in Dr. Marucci’s experienced hands. Contact us today at 02 9588 6374.