The object of otoplasty is to place the ears in an unobtrusive position. Dr Roberts introduced the laser technique because it has many advantages over traditional scalpel surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sort of anaesthetic is used?
How is the procedure performed?
What are the advantages of using the laser?
How does a patient go about finding out about this procedure?
After surgery, what can a patient expect?
What are the after effects?
Where is surgery performed/Is hospitalisation necessary?
Keeping you comfortable
The immediate after-effects
The risks
What are the possible complications?
How soon after the operation can a patient resume work or schooling?
What result can a patient expect from the operation?
What is the cost of an otoplasty procedure?

What sort of anaesthetic is used?

The procedure is usually done as day surgery in our fully Licensed Day Surgery Centre using intravenous "twilight" sedation and local anaesthesia. This type of sedation allows the patient to be comfortable during the procedure and post-operatively the recovery is easier than if a full general anaesthetic is used.

How is the procedure performed?

An incision is made by laser at the back of the ear and skin is removed to expose the ear cartilage. This cartilage is then folded on itself to reshape the ear using sutures. The incision is then closed.

What are the advantages of using the laser?

• Minimal bruising and swelling with a good post-operative recovery period

  The Laser cuts and seals the blood vessels and as a result there is no bleeding during surgery and minimal post-operative bruising and swelling.
  With Laser surgery, you are able to return to work and social activities soon after the procedure - usually within a few days, however the dressing should stay on your head for one or two weeks.

• Minimal post-operative pain

  The laser energy soothes small nerve endings in the skin.

• Safe and precise

  The Laser improves the safety and precision of the procedure as the absence of bleeding during the operation means improved visibility for the surgeon and less need for electrocautery to control bleeding.

How does a patient go about finding out about this procedure?

An assessment appointment is necessary (sometimes 2 assessments are recommended before a procedure is booked). The consultation fee is $80. A Medicare rebate applies.

After surgery, what can a patient expect?

Following surgery the ears are covered with a multilayer dressing which is similar to the style of a turban. The dressing is removed after one or two weeks and the patient then wears a head band, only at night for a further 2 - 3 weeks, although the exact time period will be determined by Dr. as the healing process is progressing.

What are the after effects?

Swelling and bruising are very minimal and subside over a period of 2 - 3 weeks. The stitches are removed 2 weeks after the procedure. The scar should not be visible as it is behind the ear.

Where is surgery performed / Is hospitalisation necessary?

Hospitalisation is not necessary, the procedure is performed in our fully licensed Day Surgery Centre. You will stay one or two hours after surgery and can then go home. It is essential that you arrange to have a friend or family member accompany you home and to preferably stay with you during the first night after surgery.

Keeping you comfortable.

Pre-operative medications to relieve tension and local anaesthetics to numb the area during surgery are commonly administered. This assists in keeping you comfortable and free of pain during and after the operation. If desired, an intravenous sedation can be administered.

The immediate after-effects.

After the operation, some swelling and bruising can be expected. The swelling and bruising usually subsides within the first few days. There may be mild discomfort for a short time after surgery and this can be easily controlled by taking Paracetamol. Significant pain is very rare.

Sutures are removed two weeks after surgery and/or can dissolve themselves.

The risks.

Risks are minimal. There are inherent risks in any surgical procedure - however, these will be discussed thoroughly with your cosmetic surgeon during your consultation.

What are the possible complications?

• Bleeding - This is very unlikely.
  
  
• Bruising and swelling - Very minimal, and usually only for a few days.
  
  
• Infection - This can occur after any operation, however is minimised by taking antibiotics and applying an antibiotic ointment to the incision after surgery.
  
  
• Visibility of the scar - This is rare as the skin behind the ears in most people heals as an imperceptible scar and is concealed by placing the incision in the skin crease of the ears, however some people may have a tendency to form thicker scars. Occasionally keloid scars may occur, especially if a patient is susceptible to keloid scarring.
  
  
• Asymmetry of ears - Many people have slightly asymmetrical ears before surgery and become aware of this when inspecting their ears after surgery. This can occur even if at the time of the operation equal amounts of skin are removed - but it is rare.

How soon after the operation can a patient resume work or schooling?

This depends entirely on the patient's willingness to return to a normal schedule whilst wearing the headband and of course this issue will be discussed before the surgery takes place. Overall however, one or two weeks are appropriate and quite typical before returning to a normal schedule.

What result can a patient expect from the operation?

A patient can expect his or her ears to be better positioned and in balance with the facial features and head, also giving a more natural look.

What is the cost of an otoplasty procedure?

The total cost of the procedure will generally be around $3,500 - $4,000. This includes theatre & accommodation fees of $1,100.

Section 159P of the Income Tax Assessment Act (medical expenses rebate) can also assist in lowering the monetary outlay - an enquiry will need to be made with your accountant.