An area of Special Expertise for Dr. Breidahl

Dr. Breidahl has extensive expertise gained in otoplasty through more than ten years as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at the Royal Children's Hospital.

Plastic Surgery of the Ears

Some children and adults are unhappy with the shape of their ears because they are too big, stick out too much or are uneven in shape (asymmetrical). Teasing and taunts may result in a loss of self-confidence in these individuals. Surgery to make the ears appear more normal can help to restore self-confidence.

Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to change the angle and shape of protruding or uneven ears in children and adults. During Otoplasty Dr. Breidahl reshapes part of the cartilage in the ears, allowing them to lie closer to the side of the head.

Anaesthesia

• Modern anaesthesia is safe but does have risks.
• Children undergoing Otoplasty usually receive general anaesthesia.
• Adults often receive local anaesthesia and conscious sedation.

The Surgical Procedure for Otoplasty

• Dr. Breidahl cuts and removes an ellipse of skin behind each ear near the fold where the ear joins the head. Dr. Breidahl then sculpts the ear cartilage, allowing the cartilage to bend into a more natural shape. Stitches hold the ear cartilage in its new position.
• Dr. Breidahl may remove a piece of ear cartilage and skin to achieve the desired shape before securing the ear to its new position with stitches.
• Finally Dr. Breidahl closes the incision using stitches that dissolve. Otoplasty surgery usually takes between one and two hours.

Recovery from Surgery

• Day-surgery patients may be ready to go home after a few hours. Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital. A responsible adult should stay with you for at least 24 hours after you return home.
• After surgery a bulky bandage will cover your ears. The bandage will remain in place for up to 7 days. Dr. Breidahl will remove the bandage and give advice on hair washing.
• Pain and discomfort are to be expected for the first few days after surgery. Paracetamol is usually sufficient to relieve pain. Pain and discomfort should ease after the first week.
• After Dr. Breidahl removes the bandage, the ears may be bruised, swollen and tender.
• For several weeks after surgery avoid activities that might bend or hurt the ears, such as contact sports.
• Most adults can return to work within five days, but many wait until the bandage is removed. Children can go back to school after seven days but must be careful in the playground.