Ear reshaping surgery (otoplasty) is relatively less invasive plastic surgery. But similar to any surgical procedure, otoplasty is also associated with certain risks.
The decision to undergo ear reshaping surgery is a personal one, and the patient should evaluate the potential benefits and risks to make an enlightened decision.
During the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient of the potential risks and safety aspects to enable them to make a judicious decision. The patient will have to sign consent forms stating that they comprehend the procedure, the alternative treatment options (if any), and the possible risks.
In the case of small children undergoing otoplasty, their parents or guardians will have to make this decision for them. Dr. Landon D. McLain provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.
Bleeding (Hematoma)
In rare cases, the patient may experience bleeding in the wounds during the ear reshaping surgery or recovery.
The surgeon can reduce this risk by cautiously determining any underlying health conditions of the patient and making sure that they do stop the use of blood thinners, NSAIDs and specific types of herbal supplements and vitamins for a few days prior to the procedure.
Blood Clotting
Another risk associated with otoplasty is the formation of blood clots. In case the patient is pre-disposed to clot formation, they will be at a higher risk. The surgeon will assess the medical records of the patient to determine such issues. On their part, the patient should volunteer all pertinent medical details for their own safety.
Asymmetry
Ear reshaping surgery may be undertaken on one or both ears. There is a risk of asymmetry in either case. Both ears are never completely symmetrical or identical. However, they should appear natural.
Infection
Any surgery has the inherent risk of infection. The surgical facility should have a hygienic and sterile environment. After the surgery, the patient should prevent the exposure of the incision sites to contamination. The surgeon may prescribe the patient antibiotics for some days to reduce the risk of infection after surgery.
Slow Healing
In a few cases, the post-operative healing may be slow, and the wound may not heal properly. This risk is typically higher for smokers. For this reason, the surgeon will direct the patient to discontinue smoking for a specified duration before their otoplasty procedure.
Poor Anesthesia Reaction
In the case of children, the surgeon may undertake the procedure using general anesthesia. For adult patients, they may recommend local anesthesia and sedation. Some patients may experience a poor response to anesthesia. An anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist should oversee the patient’s response during the surgery to identify the concerns in a prompt manner.
Other risks associated with ear reshaping surgery include skin discoloration, numbness, unwanted scarring, extended inflammation, or the possibility of revision surgery. Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for ear surgery.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.
Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.
