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Otoplasty, also referred to as cosmetic ear surgery, is a type of cosmetic procedure to change the size, shape, or position of the ear. It is performed on the visible part of the outer ear, called auricle. Some people choose to have the surgery to correct odd-shaped ears due to an injury or birth defect. Others have it because they are concerned with how their ears protrude too far from their head. Otoplasty can be performed at any age after the ears have reached their full size, generally after age 5. In some cases, the surgery may be done as early as age 3.
There are several types of otoplasty. The following are the most common:
Otoplasty is typically carried out under local anesthesia with a sedative, so you will be awake but you will not feel any pain. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, typically for younger children.
The techniques used by your surgeon vary based on the type of otoplasty you are having. In general, your surgeon makes an incision either within the inner creases of your ears or on the backs of your ears. Then, your surgeon manipulates the tissue of the ear, which may include removal of cartilage or skin, grafting of cartilage to the ear, or folding and shaping of cartilage using permanent stitches. Once your surgeon is done correcting the shape, size, and position of your ears, the incisions are closed with stitches.
Otoplasty can take between 1 and 3 hours to perform, depending on the complexity and the specifics of the procedure. It is typically done as an outpatient procedure, which means you can leave the hospital on the same day. It is recommended that you stay in Taiwan for 7 more days for follow-up checkups and removal of stitches.
The recovery period may vary from one person to another. You may experience numbness for several weeks, and mild bruising for about 2 weeks. For several months, your ears may feel stiff and sore.
You should be able to go back to work and resume your normal activities, including exercise, within one to two weeks after surgery. Physical contact sports, such as rugby, football, or judo, should be avoided for at least 3 months. You should also avoid swimming for up to 8 weeks following your otoplasty.
Your surgeon will provide post-operative instructions. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully to promote smooth and quick recovery. You should rest with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows to minimize swelling. It is recommended that you eat a light, soft, and cool diet for several days. Take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid sleeping on your side or rub the incisions to keep pressure off your ears. Consider wearing shirts with loose-fitting collars or button-down shirts.
Otoplasty is a safe and effective procedure, with high satisfaction rates. More than 90% of people who had the procedure claimed to be extremely happy with the results. Note that it may take some time for the result to be fully visible.
While it is a safe procedure, you still need to be aware of possible risks and complications that otoplasty carries. These include bleeding, hematoma formation, infection of the skin, infection of the cartilage of the ear, permanent or temporary numbness around the affected area, scar or keloid formation, unfavorable results, prolonged pain, narrowing of the external ear canal, impaired healing, changes in skin sensation, asymmetry, and overcorrection.
There are not many viable alternatives to otoplasty as of yet. One of the most popular alternatives is nonsurgical otoplasty, which does not require any incisions. The procedure uses special sutures to pin the ears back and achieve a more symmetrical look. These sutures are woven into the ears and will remain in place permanently. They are also virtually invisible, so the results will look natural.
For babies under three months old with prominent ears, ear-molds can be taped to their ears to reshape the ears without surgery. This type of treatment typically takes about six to eight weeks.
Before otoplasty, you may have prominent or large ears or other deformity caused by an injury or birth defect that bothers you. Some people also feel self-conscious and embarrassed by the shape, size, and position of their ears. After the procedure, your ears will be corrected. Small or underdeveloped ears will be augmented to increase the size, the size of large ears will be reduced, and prominent ears will be drawn closer to the head. Your appearance will improve and you may feel more confident.
Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers
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Whilst still a part of the Republic of China, the small island of Taiwan maintains a wealth of ancient Chinese culture and traditions mixed with modern-day Western inspirations. With its food-loving locals and award-winning whiskeys, Taiwan is a land of surprises. With 14 JCI accredited facilities in Taiwan, Taipei, the capital, is home to most, many of which are part of the University Hospitals and offer a range of specialist tertiary care. The country welcomes an ever-increasing number of medical tourists each year, many of which travel for Otoplasty procedures. Medical Tourists mostly travel from the mainland or from within the region.
Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with 23.5 million inhabitants. The country has amazed tourists with its dynamic cities, vibrant culture, interesting history, and incredible natural scenery.
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is the main airport in the country, located about 40km west of Taipei in the Dayuan District, Taoyuan. It is the hub for 6 airlines including two of Taiwan’s major airlines, China Airlines, and EVA Air. It has international connections with almost every country in the world. The airport serves major airlines as well as budget airlines such as Air Asia, Eastar Jet, Air Busan, and Tiger air Taiwan. There are other airports that serve international and domestic flights such as Taichung Airport, Tainan Airport, Siaogang Airport, and Taipei Songshan Airport.
Tourists arriving at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport have a variety of transport options such as buses, taxis, car rentals, and Taoyuan Airport MRT. Buses are the cheapest option to get to the city center. Tourists who head towards the Taipei 101 area should take Bus no. 1960, while bus no. 1819 and 1961 will take tourists near Taipei Main Train Station.
Taxis are available in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2’ arrivals lobby. The fare is based on a meter and will usually cost around 1,200 TWD (40.50 USD). A journey to the city center takes about 50 minutes and taxis operate for 24 hours.
Taoyuan Airport MRT is the fastest way to reach Taipei’s city center. It will take tourists to Taipei Main Station in 35 minutes and costs 160 TWD (5.40 USD). The MRT operates from 6.05 am to 11.35 pm.
Tourists can travel around Taiwan by normal train (TRA). It is an affordable option; a train ride from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 845 TWD. Tourists who need a quicker travel time can opt for Taiwan High-Speed Train (HSR). The train travels from Taipei to Kaohsiung in just 90 minutes.
The cheapest way to travel around Taiwan is by bus. Buses are readily available and will reach small villages and mountain resorts. The country provides Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus system that offers 42 routes to more than 100 tourist destinations.
Taxis and MRT is the best way to travel around big cities. In Kaohsiung, getting around in a bicycle is the best way to explore as it is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Taiwan.
Citizens of 65 countries do not require a visa to visit Taiwan and can stay for up to 90 days. Nationals of Turkey can obtain a visa on arrival valid for 30 days. It is best to check to the nearest embassy or consulate for visa requirements. Since January 2016, Taiwan offers an eVisa program for 18 countries including Saudi Arabia, Peru, Oman, and United Arab Emirates.