Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping surgery, is a relatively less invasive plastic surgery procedure. But, some risks are inherent to any surgical procedure, including otoplasty.
The decision to undergo ear reshaping surgery is a personal one. Therefore, the patient should evaluate the potential benefits against the risks of the procedure to make a judicious choice.
During the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient of the possible risks and safety aspects of ear surgery to enable them to make an enlightened decision.
The patient will have to sign consent forms stating that they have a thorough understanding of the procedure, the alternative treatments available (if any) and the potential risks associated with the surgery.
If a child is undergoing the procedure, their parents or guardians will be responsible for making this decision. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bryson Richards provides otoplasty to patients in Las Vegas, NV, and surrounding communities.
Bleeding (Hematoma)
In rare cases, the patient may experience bleeding in the wounds during or after their otoplasty procedure. The surgeon will try to minimize this risk by thoroughly determining whether the patient has any underlying health conditions.
They will also ask the patient to avoid taking any blood-thinning drugs, NSAIDs, and specific herbal supplements and vitamins for a few days prior to the procedure.
Blood Clotting
The formation of blood clots is another rare risk associated with ear reshaping cosmetic surgery. Patients with a history of clot formation will be at a higher risk.
The surgeon will assess the patient’s medical records to detect such issues. On their part, the patient should honestly reveal relevant medical information in the interest of their safety.
Asymmetry
Otoplasty can be undertaken in one or both ears. Regardless of the case, there is a risk of asymmetrical outcomes. Both ears are never identical or completely symmetrical. However, they should appear natural.
Infection
Every surgical procedure has an inherent risk of infection. The surgical facility should maintain a hygienic and sterile environment.
After the procedure, the patient should not expose the incision sites to contamination. In order to minimize the risk of infection after surgery, the surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to the patient.
Slow Healing
In a few cases, the post-operative healing may be slow, and the wound may heal poorly. The risk of slow healing is typically higher for smokers. For this reason, the surgeon will ask the patient to refrain from smoking for a specified duration before their otoplasty procedure.
Poor Anesthesia Response
Adults may undergo the procedure with local anesthesia and sedation while general anesthesia may be necessary to perform otoplasty on children. Some patients may experience an adverse reaction to anesthesia.
An anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist should oversee the patient’s response to the anesthetic during the surgery to detect any concerns early on.
Skin discoloration, numbness, unfavorable scarring, extended inflammation, allergy, and the possibility of revision surgery are other risks associated with ear reshaping surgery.
Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Bryson Richards receives patients from Las Vegas, NV, and nearby areas for otoplasty.
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.