While otoplasty is relatively less invasive plastic surgery, it still has certain inherent risks and side-effects, similar to any surgical procedure.
It is a very personal decision to undergo ear reshaping surgery. The patient should judiciously evaluate the potential advantages and limitations of the procedure beforehand.
Full Disclosure
At the time of the pre-op consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient on the risks associated with otoplasty to help them make a salient choice.
The patient will need to sign consent forms stating that they have completely understood the procedure, the alternative treatment options (if any) and the possible risks and complications.
Patients should dedicatedly follow the surgeon’s guidelines from the pre-op preparatory phase to the recovery stage to reduce the risks. Devoted board certified plastic surgeons at the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) provide otoplasty to patients in Houston, Texas, TX, and other suburbs and neighborhoods in this illustrious part of the US.
Hematoma (Bleeding)
In exceptional cases, the patient may experience bleeding during the ear reshaping surgery or the recovery period. The risk can be managed by cautiously assessing the present medical condition of the patient and discontinuing specific drugs and herbal supplements that can increase hematoma risks.
Blood Clots
Another risk associated with otoplasty is the development of blood clots. This risk is higher for patients with a history of clotting. The surgeon should pay close attention to the patient’s medical history. On their part, the patient should honestly reveal all health-related details to the surgeon for a safe and predictable surgery and recovery.
Asymmetry
In some patients who undergo otoplasty in one or both ears, it may lead to asymmetry. Patients should identify an experienced and qualified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon to minimize this risk.
Infection
Any surgery has an inherent risk of infection development. During the surgery, a sterile environment should be maintained. The patient should avoid exposing the incision to contaminants during the initial recovery period. The surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to the patient for the initial few days after the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
Slow Healing
In a few cases, there may be poor wound healing or the healing may be slow. Smokers are at a higher risk of delayed healing as tobacco contains nicotine which interferes with the blood flow. The surgeon will ask the patient to not smoke for a specific duration before and after the otoplasty.
Poor Anesthesia Response
Children will typically undergo otoplasty under general anesthesia. Sometimes the patient may have an adverse response to anesthesia. An anesthesiologist or certified nurse anesthetist should be in attendance during the procedure to oversee the patient’s reaction to the anesthetic.
Other Risks
Other risks involved in ear reshaping surgery are alterations in skin sensation or numbness, discoloration of the skin, prolonged inflammation, unwanted scarring, suture material and tape allergies, persistent pain, and the likelihood of revision surgery.
Committed cosmetic surgeons at the ACPS receive patients from Houston, Texas, TX, and other neighborhoods and towns in this part of the country for ear surgery.
For more information about The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) physicians and the cosmetic surgery treatments and procedures they perform please click here or call us at 713.799.9999. We have offices in and around Houston, Texas.
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