Did you know that having ears of different size is more common than you think?
Fortunately, there is a plastic surgery that may correct this type of imperfections and improve the quality of life of patients.
Known as Otoplasty or ear surgery, it is a surgical procedure that generates immediate and permanent results for this part of the body [2].
Thanks to this surgery, it is possible to correct the size or shape of the ears, reduce their projection and generate a better harmony with the rest of the face. In addition, it does not affect the hearing function or changes the location of your ears.
So, if you want to know more details about this surgery, continue reading because we will explain how this type of surgical procedure really works and what are its three main benefits.
How does otoplasty work
Ear surgery is an ambulatory procedure that guarantees natural results with fast recovery and tolerable pain. You can go home the same day as the surgery and resume daily activities the next day if desired. However, you must follow all the medical recommendations given.
For this procedure, the plastic surgeon makes a small incision behind the ear to mold the cartilage into the desired shape. Then, if deemed necessary, he will remove excess skin.
Finally, depending on your needs or expectations, the ear will be repositioned closer to the head and the surgeon will proceed to close the incision with absorbable sutures that will be hidden from view.[2]
The remaining scar is practically imperceptible and the results go beyond the looks. So, let’s talk about the “big three” benefits of ear surgery.
Why you should get otoplasty
Otoplasty will give you greater symmetry, an adequate size in your ears, and better self-esteem.[2] Hereunder, we break down these big three under scientific proves and a medical approach. Let’s dive in to find out more.
Harmonize your facial proportions
Our ears are usually separated by an angle of about 21 to 30 degrees from our heads. When they have more than 30 degrees of separation, they seem to be sticking out. This can be a genetic thing; it can also happen due to health conditions or life accidents.[4]
Such a tiny detail can make a huge difference! That is why having your ears in the right proportion and shape can dramatically enhance the harmony in your face.
Otoplasty is used to treat several imperfections of the ears, such as its size (too large or small), being folded, cupped, protruding, or ‘cauliflower ears’[3]
Elevate your self-esteem
Having a more harmonious face will raise your self-confidence. Several studies [5] have proven that both children and adults who undergo an ear surgery have increased their happiness and their social experience.[5]
This means that they come to perceive themselves as more attractive people when they see the results of surgery. A subtle change may encourage patients to continue cultivating their self-esteem.
Improve your quality of life
Doctors and researchers who have focused on the HRQOL (Health-Related Quality Of Life) effects of otoplasty have come to the conclusion that ear surgery is an appropriate therapy for people with prominent ears.[1]
Studies conducted in the field show how patients perceive their health (both physical and mental) to be in better shape after the procedure. Following this surgery, most patients feel motivated to take better care of their bodies and faces, they feel joyful with life, they want to express themselves and they become more productive.
As you can read, otoplasty is not just a matter of being “picky” about the way your ears look, it has an enormous impact on your health and wellbeing. It is a relatively simple procedure, but it is complex due to the thoroughness it beholds.
That is why at BetterMe we look for the best surgeons in the field, we make sure they have the right experience and that they’re board-certified. Contact us today to find out how to start planning your ear surgery and prepare for a drastic life change.
[1] Schwentner, I., Schmutzhard, J., Deibl, M., & Sprinzl, G. M. (2006). Health-related Quality of Life Outcome of Adult Patients after Otoplasty. Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, 17(4), 629–635. https://doi.org/10.1097/00001665-200607000-00004
[2] BetterME. (2021, 24 diciembre). Otoplasty – BetterME. BetterME. Recuperado 06 de enero de 2022, de https://bettermegroup.com/otoplasty/
[3]Top Doctors. (2017, 8 noviembre). Laser lipo vs liposuction: what are the advantages? Recuperado 30 de diciembre de 2021, de https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/laser-lipo-vs-liposuction-what-are-the-advantages#
[4] Felman, A. (2020, 11 agosto). Should I have an otoplasty? Medical News Today. Recuperado 7 de enero de 2022, de https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/246767#causes-of-prominent-ears
[5] Cooper-Hobson, G., & Jaffe, W. (2009, 1 febrero). The benefits of otoplasty for children: Further evidence to satisfy the modern NHS. ScienceDirect. Recuperado 7 de enero de 2022, de https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1748681507004780
[6] Papadopulos, N. A., Niehaus, R., Keller, E., Henrich, G., Papadopoulos, O. N., Staudenmaier, R., Kovacs, L., Peter Herschbach, Pototschnig, H., & Machens, H. G. (2015). The Psychologic and Psychosocial Impact of Otoplasty on Children and Adults. Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, 26(8), 2309–2314. https://doi.org/10.1097/scs.0000000000001990
