If you are wondering from what age the operation is possible, it is useful to know that the ears have slowed their growth by around 6 to 7 years of age, and that it is then possible to correct their deformity. Usually, the deformity is due to the cartilage not forming the fold needed to bring the edge of the ear backwards.
For children, the best time is when they begin to feel significant psychological discomfort. Sometimes it is useful to operate before they start primary school; others will only express a wish later on. Some children will never be bothered, and they should not be forced, especially as the procedure can also be carried out in adulthood.
The procedure consists of folding this cartilage. I use an incision placed behind the outer part of the ear, behind the future fold, so it will be completely invisible. The cartilage is weakened and folded to obtain the desired shape.
It is held in the correct position by a few deep stitches, and the skin incision is closed. A small drain is left in place for the first few hours. A moulding dressing is applied. The sutures dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed.
The dressing is removed the next day and the drain is taken out painlessly. There will be a post-operative check-up 8 to 10 days after the procedure. For the first few nights, the ears must be kept in the correct position with a slightly elastic headband, but it will not be necessary to wear this headband during the day, unless protection seems useful for children. It may be helpful to keep wearing the headband at night during the first month.
The ear may be quite sensitive for a few weeks. The final result can only be assessed after about six months.
This operation can also be performed very well under local anaesthesia, with the hospital stay limited to two or three hours. Under 9 to 10 years of age, however, the child must be put completely to sleep.
Sometimes the scar behind the ears becomes a little thick over time, and treatment with ointment or a few injections may prove useful in case it is visible from behind in those with short hair. For this reason, late follow-up consultations at 6, 12 and 18 months are essential.
34 Avenue d'Eylau 75016 Paris
Personal assistant Else STOKER
TELEPHONE +33 (0)1 53 57 87 65
WHATSAPP +33 (0)6 83 55 29 04
Monday to Friday
Cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery
© All Rights Reserved.