Consultation for Otoplasty
The consultation is the place for exploring the risks, benefits and alternate methods of care. There are many possible deformities and surgical solutions. Dr. Bermant will examine the problem and design the discussion to focus on the specific issues. The web can be an introduction to this experience, but the consultation is a better place to find what plastic surgery has to offer.
Since Dr. Bermant sees many patients from around the world, some prefer to start the process with his preliminary remote package to minimize travel to Richmond. Call our office or E-mail us to learn more about this process.
All surgery involves risks and there are specific complications associated with ear surgery. Asymmetry or uneven results can happen. The repair may fail and the deformity may partially or completely recur. A small percentage of patients develop a blood clot (hematoma) under the skin of the ear. This may dissolve on its own or need drainage with a needle. An infection can cause deformity and scar tissue. Antibiotics are the usual treatment, drainage is rarely necessary.
Dr. Bermant tries to hide or camouflage his ear sculpture scars. Scars
for most otoplasty ear surgery are usually just behind the ear. Certain types of ear sculpture may require incisions hidden under the rim of the ear in the front. Macrotia big ear reduction surgery may need additional incisions as shown in the Big Ear Surgery Section.
Surgery can be performed in Dr. Bermant's Accredited Office Surgery Center or in one of the local hospitals. Very young patients need general anesthesia. Once a patient can cooperate, local anesthesia (with or without sedation) is usually fine for ear sculpture. Either way, the operation is done as an outpatient - a hospital stay is normally not necessary.
On the day of surgery, wear a loose fitting shirt that will not cause
a problem when getting it over the large ear dressings. A button down shirt is much easier than one that must be pulled over the head. We prefer
someone driving you to the operating room. For our out of town patients who do not plan to bring a friend or family member, we can help you hire a nurse for a few hours until you recover from sedation (if needed).
We provide extensive instructions before surgery about the care after surgery. We want to make your experience before, during, and after surgery as informed and relaxed as possible. This education is PART of our surgical package for OUR patients. Not all offices will offer our attention to detail, expertise, and time we take with each of our patients.
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Otoplasty Ear Surgery |
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