Q – Where is the ear surgery procedure performed?
Dr. Buckingham may perform your ear surgery in an outpatient surgical center.
Q – What type of anesthesia is used for ear surgery/?
The different types of anesthesia that are used during ear surgery often vary by age. General anesthesia is typically used for younger children, while older children or adults usually receive general or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation.
Q – How is the otoplasty procedure performed?
For the otoplasty procedure, a small incision is made in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. This is then reshaped and bent back closer to the head in order to achieve the desired result. Sutures may be used to reshape the ear or hold the ear in place.
Q – How long does the actual ear surgery procedure last?
A typical ear surgery procedure lasts one and one half hours, though the exact time will depend on the individual case.
Q – Where are the incisions made for ear surgery?
Dr. Buckingham typically confines the incisions for ear surgery to the back of the ear, allowing them to be well-concealed and barely visible.
Q – Are there scars after ear surgery?
There is a slight scar that is left behind the ear after ear surgery, though it is well concealed and tends to fade throughout the years.
Q – Is otoplasty painful?
After an ear surgery there may be some throbbing and aching of the ears for the first few days. Medication will be prescribed in order to relieve any discomfort.
Q – What is the recovery like after otoplasty?
After otoplasty, the ears may be bandaged. Some discomfort, throbbing or aching of the ears can occur during the first few days though this can be alleviated with prescription medication. The bandages are usually removed after a few days and replaced with a lighter headband-like dressing. Some swelling, redness and numbness can also occur.
Q – When can I return to work after my otoplasty surgery?
Work or school can usually be resumed within about five to seven days after the otoplasty surgery.
Q – When can I exercise after the ear surgery procedure?
After an ear surgery, vigorous exercise should be postponed for three weeks. Activities that may involve hitting or bending the ear should be avoided for at least six weeks to prevent damage to the ear.