Is Otoplasty Surgery Worth The Benefits?

Is Otoplasty Surgery Worth The Benefits?

The thought of any type of surgery can understandably be a daunting prospect for some people, inducing worries about pain, recovery time and expenses. At our Sydney clinic, we believe that anyone considering a surgical procedure deserves to be fully informed about what the process will involve as well as any potential risks prior to making their decision. Here we have put together a comprehensive guide to help you evaluate if an otoplasty surgery is worth it for you.

What is otoplasty surgery?

Many people are unaware of what otoplasty surgery is, as the procedure is more commonly known as ‘ear pinning’. The purpose of an otoplasty procedure is to surgically reshape the outer ear (pinna) in order to correct uneven or misshapen ears and it may also involve the pinning back of protruding ears.

What are the benefits of an otoplasty?

Otoplasty is becoming increasingly popular in Australia and an extremely common procedure with plenty of celebrities undergoing the surgery as well as young children.  Compared to other cosmetic surgeries, an otoplasty involves a fairly brief recovery time and it’s a relatively quick and straightforward procedure. A simple and effective way to correct an irregularity or to improve appearance, the surgery can help increase confidence and therefore has the potential to improve overall quality of life.

Why do people get otoplasty surgery?

A big part of determining if an otoplasty is worth it is identifying why you are considering getting the procedure in the first place. While a handful of people seek an otoplasty to correct cartilage and/or hearing that has been affected by an injury or health condition, this damage is more likely to be resolved through reconstructive surgery. This is because the outer ear plays a small role in hearing and so it is more common for people to undergo an otoplasty for purely cosmetic reasons.

On average, ears usually grow around two centimeters from the side of the head and so having ears that are more prominent can be bothersome to some. Oftentimes, this may result in embarrassment and psychological distress with research showing that having overly prominent ears can also cause low self-esteem, isolation, and a lack of confidence.

How much does otoplasty cost?

The cost of surgery will vary depending on your specific needs and level of health cover, however, at most Sydney clinics the average price will typically be around $7,000-10,000 in total. Make sure you get in contact with your health insurance provider beforehand to determine if your otoplasty can be covered by insurance.

How long is otoplasty recovery?

While it is important to clarify with your doctor beforehand, the recovery time for otoplasty is usually quite short. After the surgery you will be required to wear a headband dressing for about a week and are likely to feel sore and experience numbness, tingling and mild bruising for several weeks. However, in less than just two weeks you should be able to return to school, wash your hair and travel.

Is an otoplasty worth it?

A safe procedure with a high success rate, otoplasty has the ability to aid self-consciousness and improve overall facial composition. Before investing in a procedure you should always discuss the pros and cons with a professional and ultimately, the decision will be yours to make.

While you should always maintain realistic expectations, a qualified surgeon like Dr Shahidi will work with you to identify your particular objectives and create a solution that meets your goals. Contact us today to book a consultation or if you have any questions, feel free to fill out a quick enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.