Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in Karachi

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to change the size, shape or proportion of the ears or pin them back if they stick out.  The most common reason why people seek ear surgery is because they are bothered by how far their ears stick out from their head. This ear characteristic can cause psychological trauma and can affect personality and self-esteem for a lifetime.  For this reason, many parents chose to get surgery performed in their children to avoid bullying and future emotional impact. The most common approaches to correct prominent ears are Otoplasty and Earfold (a less invasive procedure).

Otoplasty covers several outer-ear related surgeries.

Good candidates for an otoplasty usually meet the following criteria:

• You are unhappy with the way your ears look and feel uncomfortable specially when you style your hear
• You feel your ears are too big and out of proportion
• Your ears stick out from your head
• Your earlobes are large and oddly shaped
• Your ears are not symmetric
• Children above 5 years old
• Mentally stable patients with realistic expectations about surgery results
• Healthy patients without health problems which may interfere with healing process
• Non-smokers

All incisions leave scars. However, ear pinning surgery scars are hidden behind the ear and usually heal very well. Some other ear correction requires incisions in front of the ear but is these cases, every attempt is made to hide the scars along the natural ear folds. Otoplasty incisions are made as small as possible for the best overall patient´s satisfaction.

There is no right age to perform and otoplasty but the sooner the better. Ear pinning surgery is not only for adults, it´s designed for any person who suffers with their ear appearance. Children with prominent ears may suffer bullying at school which can interfere with their confidence and cause emotional trauma for the rest of their lives. Everyone deserves to feel confident from a very young age and feel comfortable in their own body. If you think your child needs ear surgery, speak to your plastic surgeon about it. It is recommended to get surgery done at an early age but not before the age of 5 as ears are still developing.

Like in any other surgery, otoplasty involves preparation. It is important to know what to expect and follow medical advice. The initial step to undergo an ear correction surgery is the first consultation with the plastic surgeon where the following will be evaluated:

Medical history: it is important to inform your plastic surgeon about any medical condition related to your ears, ear infections or problems you have or had and talk about other important issues such as medication you take, allergies, etc.

Physical exam: the plastic surgeon will evaluate your ear size, shape and position to determine the best treatment option. Pictures may be taken for medical record.

Expectations: you should share with your plastic surgeon your goals and expectations regarding otoplasty and the appearance you wish to achieve. The plastic surgeon will be able to confirm if you are a good candidate for ear surgery and will recommend the appropriate techniques your case. Be aware surgery is not an exact science and results depend on genetics and initial ear characteristics.

Here are some tips to better prepare for surgery:

• Medical tests must be performed in advance (it may include blood, ear and other tests).
• Stop smoking a few weeks before surgery and during the recovery process as it may affect the ability to heal properly.
• Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatories or herbal supplements that can thin your blood.
• Take 2 weeks off work. For children surgery is recommended during school holidays.
• You will not be able to drive after the surgery so arrange for someone to pick you up at the clinic.
• You should have someone to help you during the first 24 hours – for precaution only.

After an otoplasty your ears will be covered with a headband for protection and support. Bandage must be used 24/7 for 1 or 2 weeks and then during the night for another 2 to 3 weeks. After surgery you will remain in the recovery room for a few hours until you are able to go home – it is an outpatient procedure so you can return home on the same day. Otoplasty recovery is not particularly painful, but you may experience the following symptoms:

• Discomfort.
• Mild to moderate pain.
• Itching.
• Swelling.
• Numbness.
• Bruises.

Full recovery from an otoplasty takes time. It is important to know what to expect and follow medical instructions for a quicker and comfortable recovery. Here are some recommendations for a good recovery:

• Get organized to be off work for 2 weeks. For children school holiday season is preferred to perform surgery.
• Full rest for 24 hours.
• Sleep on your back with your head elevated with pillows.
• Do not rub your ears.
• Always use your headband.
• Avoid strenuous activities
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Avoid sun exposure.
• Take the prescribed medication.
• Avoid smoking.
• Avoid taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication which increase the risk of bleeding.
• Attend the follow-up appointments.
• Provide distraction for children (board games, colouring books, TV shows, movies, etc).
• Report any bleeding, severe pain or unusual reactions to your plastic surgeon.

After your headband is removed you will notice an immediate change in the appearance of your ears – your ears will appear back closer to the head. However, due to bruising and residual swelling it can take up to 3 months (approximately) to see ear surgery final results.

As with any other surgery, there are risks and complications associated with ear surgery but, fortunately, they rarely happen. Thousands of otoplasties are performed all around the world with a very low complication rate and with a very high satisfaction level. Some of otoplasty risks and complications include:

• Reaction to anaesthesia.
• Allergic reactions.
• Hematoma or seroma.
• Bleeding.
• Infection.
• Changes in sensitivity.
• Unpleasant scarring.
• Suture complications.
• Asymmetric results.
• Cartilage reversal.

To minimize the risk of otoplasty complications, you must follow your plastic surgeon’s recommendations before and after the surgery. During your consultation, all otoplasty risks and complications will be discussed in detail and you will be able to ask all your questions.

The price of an otoplasty (ear surgery) depends on surgery complexity and whether you are getting surgery in one or both ears. No two ear surgeries are the same and prices will vary on needed techniques and surgery time required. Otoplasty can also be combined with other surgical and non-surgical procedures.  However, the price of an otoplasty in Karachi starts at Rs 125.000/ – includes medical and nursing fees, surgery room and other costs that will be carefully explained after your consultation. To schedule your ear surgery consultation in Karachi or for more information on prices and conditions, please contact us today on the following numbers:

• Aga Khan Hospital: +92 21 111 911 911
• Cooper Consultants Clinic: +92 21 35 37 0671 4

Dr Zia is a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon from Karachi with over 10 years of experience in performing ear reshaping surgeries. Otoplasty requires exceptional skills and expertise to adapt techniques to each patient´s anatomy.

• Dr Zia routinely performs otoplasties and Earfold surgeries.
• Proven results by before and after gallery.
• Top rated ear surgery plastic surgeon in Karachi.
• Performs ear surgeries in state of art clinics with all the safety conditions for his patients – Aga Khan Hospital and Cooper Clinic in Karachi.