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Otoplasy - Advice following your operation.
What is an Otoplasty?
An otoplasty is the medical term given to the operation to correct prominent ears. The operation can be carried out on one or both ears.
The operation is carried out under general or local anaesthetic (for more information on general and local anaesthetic click here) Your surgeon will discuss with you which is the most appropriate. During your operation, skin is removed usually from behind the ears and the cartilage folded back. This makes the ears lie closer to the side of the head. You will have scars in the grooves behind your ears.
Dressings:
During the operation a turban-like dressing is applied around your head to protect your ears and to keep them in the correct position. The dressings will remain in place for 10 days. It is important that the dressings are kept clean and dry and that they are left in position until they are removed in the outpatients clinic. It is quite common for the dressings to feel uncomfortable, especially towards the end of the 10 days. Following removal of your dressings you will then be able to wash your hair and gently your ears. Following removal of your bandage, you may be advised to wear a head band at night for approximately 1 month.
Stitches:
The stitches may be either absorbable, or may need removing following the operation. You will be advised about this before you are discharged.
Pain and Bruising:
Following the operation your ears will feel bruised and uncomfortable. paracetamol or similar painkillers should give adequate relief, please follow the recommended dosage.
If you have had a general anaesthetic today we advise you not to drive a vehicle, operate machinery, take alcoholic drinks or make important decisions for 24 hours. You will need a responsible adult to stay with you for 24 hours following your operation.
Should you need to consult your GP (Family Doctor) with a problem related to your operation within 3 weeks of surgery we would appreciate you contacting the Day Surgery Unit. This will enable us to monitor your progress. Please ask to speak to the liaison nurse (Tel: 01482 675066)
Should you need any further help or advice please telephone the Day Surgery Unit, 8.00am to 8.00pm Monday to Friday (Tel: 01482 675066) At other times, only in an emergency please contact Ward 5/6 Kingston General Hospital (Tel: 01482 676334)
The Day Surgery Unit is continually striving to improve patient information. If you feel we could improve our information we would be pleased to hear from you.
