What are the risks associated with Otoplasty?
Fortunately, significant complications from otoplasty are extremely rare. Every year, this surgery has produced satisfying results for an increasing amount of men and men, women and children.
Complications can include:
- Infection in the cartilage area.
- A blood clot on the ear.
- Reaction to the anaesthesia.
- Haematoma.
- Asymmetry.
- Scarring.
What if I develop a blood clot?
The surgeon may recommend a waiting period to see if the blood clot or infection (with antibiotic treatment) resolves itself. If the clot does not dissolve, it can be removed with a needle.
What if I develop an infection?
This complication can occur in any surgery. However, if it happens after otoplasty, greater attention must be paid because the bacterium that causes the infection may determine a serious deformity of the ear. However, ear infection is exceedingly uncommon due to the use of antibiotics before and after the procedure.
Tell me more about haematoma
Bleeding under the skin or between the skin and cartilage, known as a haematoma, may require a return visit to the surgery. This is an infrequent complication. Nonetheless, if the patient experiences serious pain after the surgery, the surgeon should be told immediately.
What about scarring?
The scars caused by otoplasty are hardly visible partly because the incisions were very small and partly because they were placed behind the ears. However, a minority of patients may experience enlarged, red and itchy ear scars. Fortunately, there are procedures that deal with this kind of problems. Among them, we advise: moisturising cream, massage, pressure therapy or steroid injections. Please ask your cosmetic surgeon more about these methods.
What about asymmetry?
Since all paired organs are generally uneven, it is likely to stay that way after the surgery as well. However, the slight asymmetry will be barely noticeable.
To conclude, the better the patient is aware of the risks the better they can be reported to the surgeon and treated. So please, take your time and discuss them in detail with your surgeon.
What else should I know about risks and complications?
Patients should be aware that risks may more often occur among persons who smoke, are overweight, have diabetes or other health problems.
What happens if permanent damage occurs?
You might need further surgery to correct the problem.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about male breast reduction surgery or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.