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Does otoplasty affect hearing?

Adult woman considering otoplasty in a Wynwood-style loft
Many people are considering otoplasty, or cosmetic ear surgery. The main objective of this operation is to change the shape, size or position of the ears to give the face a more stylized appearance. There are many particular reasons for having this operation: ears that are too far from the head, an injury that caused a deformation, or excessive size are some of them. This surgery can be performed on patients of practically any age, once the ears have taken their final shape and size. However, there is some question as to whether otoplasty affects patients' hearing. To answer this question, be sure to read this post.

What is an otoplasty operation like

We must begin by explaining some basic issues of the operation called otoplasty. Before the operation, it is important to consult with the doctors to establish its relevance in each case. Through an analysis of the shape, size and position of the ears, doctors can establish the different procedures that can be applied to the patient. Depending on the case, both local and general anesthesia with sedation can be used. It is usually an outpatient surgery, so it does not require subsequent hospitalization. The different techniques to perform an otoplasty vary in each patient. This is so because there is no single problem to correct. Each patient may wish to modify the shape, size or position of the ears, or all of that at the same time. Depending on the correction to be made, the surgeon will decide the number and position of the incisions to be made during the procedure. Among those options, incisions can be made both at the back of the ears and in the inner creases. From these incisions, the excess skin and cartilage will be removed to give the ears a new shape. Using points, the incisions will be closed in the new position. In general, this process does not usually take more than two hours. In contemplating whether otoplasty affects hearing, it is worth considering what happens after the operation. You may feel some itching or soreness in the area after the operation. For a time the ears are covered by bandages to support and protect them. The discomfort can be solved with painkillers prescribed by the doctor. It is recommended not to force or impact the area. Avoid sleeping on your side so you don't put pressure on your ears, and wear loose-fitting clothes so you don't squeeze them when dressing or undressing. After a few days, the bandages can be removed, although you may need to wear a headband at night. For a few weeks, the ears will look swollen and red. This is a normal wound healing process. As for the stitches, you may need to go to the clinic to remove them or, in some cases, they dissolve on their own.

Considering whether otoplasty affects hearing

Once the curing time has elapsed, you will be able to see the results in the shape and position of the ears. It is important to consider that the results are permanent, so the appearance will be definitive. Either way, there is the possibility of further surgery to correct or reverse the result. Regarding the question of whether otoplasty affects hearing, it must be said that this risk is practically nil. Since the operation affects the outer part of the hearing aid, the inner canal is not affected. That is, there is no reason for hearing ability to be affected. However, it is possible that the perception is slightly altered, since the shape of the shell that the ear has works as a receiver of sounds. By modifying it, it is possible that some minimal alteration in hearing may be perceived, but this does not mean a loss. Either way.

Otoplasty affects hearing: Risks and precautions

As with any operation, there are some risks that can arise during surgery. From responses to anesthesia or infections, to the possibility of bleeding or poor healing. All these risks are minimized when the surgery is performed by an expert in the area. With Carlos Spera, you will find yourself in the best hands. With years of experience and many surgeries under his belt, you can be sure that every precaution will be taken to keep risks to a minimum.

Final conclusions

In general terms, it can be said that it is not true that otoplasty affects hearing. It is a safe operation, which is performed on the outside of the ear, leaving the inner ear intact. If you have questions about this or other procedures, do not hesitate to make an appointment at our clinic.

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  • 305 552 5259
  • 8725 N.W. 18th Terrace, Suite 305,
    Doral, Florida 33172