Not everyone around you has similar ear types, and a section of people are born with certain anomalies in their ears. Additionally, some individuals develop deformed ears due to specific accidents. Ear shape does not always affect hearing, but it can sometimes impact your confidence and self-esteem. That is why many people in Singapore opt for a surgical procedure called otoplasty. This is essentially an ear-reshaping surgery available for individuals of both genders.
However, you need to select the right clinic and specialist to undergo this surgery and obtain the best results.
When do ENT surgeons recommend otoplasty?
Typically, a child’s ears stop growing by the time they are 5 or 6 years old. If the kid has prominent or misshapen ears at that age, a doctor may suggest otoplasty. However, it would be wrong to assume that the surgery is limited to children. Several young adults in Singapore also undergo this procedure, particularly when they pursue careers in show business or similar professions.
What kind of ear deformities can be resolved with otoplasty?
You would be mistaken to think that otoplasty is a one-size-fits-all surgery! It is used to resolve different ear concerns, including:
- Lop ear.
- Trauma-related deformities.
- Underdeveloped or missing ear structure.
- Cup ears.
- Bat ears.
Veteran ENT surgeons perform such surgeries in Singapore. To contact trusted and veteran surgeons for this process, checking out https://earnosethroat.com.sg/ear-specialist-singapore-otoplasty-clinic/ can be helpful.
How does the surgery work?
Otoplasty is done mostly under general anesthesia. This is how it is done:
- The surgeon checks the ear and makes apt markings to guide the reshaping.
- The surgeon makes a tiny incision behind the ear carefully.
- Next, the ear cartilage is reshaped or folded.
- The surgeon cuts out any excess skin and closes the incision with delicate stitches.
- A special bandage is used to hold the new shape in place.
Usually, the surgery has minimal to no effect on the hearing capacity. The reshaping will primarily change the ear’s appearance.
The surgeons usually wrap the head of the person undergoing the surgery in a dressing. The stitches are removed after a week. Most patients return to their everyday lives in less than a week after surgery. However, complete recovery, including the reduction of swelling and shaping, may take more than a month.
What about the safety?
Otoplasty is generally safe, especially when you select a skilled surgeon for the procedure. However, some risk factors, such as scar formation and bleeding, may occur, along with numbness around the ear for a few days. A detailed discussion with your surgeon will help you understand such risks and ways to tackle them.
Final words
You should look for a certified and veteran ENT surgeon for procedures like otoplasty in Singapore. Ensure the surgeon is accredited by the Ministry of Health (MoH) Singapore. Check their experience by reading the online reviews from patients. You can find necessary details about the surgeon on their website and social media profiles. A professional surgeon will guide you on your suitability for the surgery as well as the prospects for insurance coverage.
