COSMETIC EAR SURGERY
The ear pinning operation is designed to correct ears that protrude. The operation cannot be undertaken before the age of four or five as the cartilage that lies between the rim of the ear canal has not stiffened before this age. The aim of surgery is to create either a fold, which bends back the top part of the ear, or more often to remove the excess cartilage which makes the ear stick out, sometimes both procedures are undertaken.

Surgery for younger children is by general anaesthetic, for older children and adults local anaesthetic is used. In both cases day surgery is normal. The Dressing is removed after ten days.

EARLOBE SURGERY

Earlobe surgery may be undertaken to remove the lumpy scars that sometimes form after ear piercing or to correct over long earlobes. This surgery is undertaken using local anaesthetic and heals quickly and satisfactorily.

BEFORE YOUR SURGERY

In the week before, you should not take any medications containing aspirin (acetyl salicylic acid), since these products affect the bloods clotting mechanism and therefore may lead to excessive bleeding during and after surgery, hence resulting in increased bruising. Taking high doses of vitamin E preparations, eating large amounts of garlic and consuming alcohol can also produce the same result and should be avoided. If pain medication is necessary, we recommend you take ibuprofen/paracetamol.

It is in your own best interests to quit smoking, at least two weeks before and until 2 weeks after surgery. It is well known that smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels, which leads to a decreased blood supply to the skin, thus slowing and interfering with the healing process.

Be sure to inform your surgeon of any medications you take, as well as possible allergies including (drug, latex, plasters and so on). Your surgeon will decide whether preliminary examinations are necessary, such as blood tests, an electrocardiogram, or x-rays of the lungs. If this is the case, these tests should be performed several weeks before the surgery. It is best not to wear any makeup when you come in for your operation, and to tie your hair back if possible.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

All Surgery carries some uncertainties and risks when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility of complications, including infection or a reaction to the anaesthesia. You can reduce your risks by closely following your surgeon’s instructions both before and after surgery. If you have any further questions or queries about this procedure, please feel free to call and speak to either Dr Roberto Viel, Dr Maurizio Viel or any of our nurses. Please note that it is necessary to attend a consultation prior to your operation, this is also the case with existing patients, it may also be necessary to have repeat blood test.