What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that is done to reshape, resize, or reposition the ears. It is typically done to correct a congenital defect called “prominent ears” which is a condition where the ears stick out too far from the head. This condition can cause emotional and psychological distress for both children and adults.
The procedure is done by making an incision behind the ear, in the natural crease, and then reshaping the cartilage and skin to create a more natural and proportionate ear shape. The surgeon may remove or reshape cartilage or adjust the position of the ears with sutures. The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia, although local anaesthesia is an option for adults, and recovery time can vary. Otoplasty can improve the appearance of the ears and can also boost self-confidence and self-esteem.
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How much does otoplasty cost in London?
The cost of otoplasty, or ear surgery, can vary depending on several factors such as the location of the clinic, the experience of the surgeon, and the complexity of the procedure. The cost also varies depending on whether the procedure is done as a stand-alone surgery or as part of a combined procedure.
In London, the cost of otoplasty can range from around £3,000 to £7,000. However, it is important to note that this is only an estimate, and the final cost will depend on the individual case and the surgeon’s fees.
It is important to remember that cost should not be the only factor considered when choosing a surgeon or a clinic. It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon and to have realistic expectations of the outcome of the procedure. Additionally, make sure to check the surgeon’s qualifications and to ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients to get a better idea of their work.
What are the benefits of otoplasty surgery?
Otoplasty, or ear surgery, can provide several benefits, both cosmetic and functional.
Cosmetic benefits include:
- Improving the appearance of the ears, making them look more proportionate and natural
- Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem, particularly in children and adolescents who may have been teased or bullied because of their ears
- Enhancing overall facial symmetry and balance.
Functional benefits include:
- Improving the patient’s ability to hear by repositioning the ears closer to the head
- Reducing pain or discomfort caused by the rubbing of the ears against clothing or headgear
- Improving the fit of glasses and sunglasses.
Additionally, otoplasty can be done at any age, and it is a relatively safe and well-tolerated procedure. At Centre for surgery, we only perform otoplasty surgery on people aged over 18. The procedure can be done under local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia, and recovery time can vary.
It’s important to have realistic expectations of the procedure’s outcome and to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to ensure the best results. Otoplasty can be a life-changing procedure for patients who have been self-conscious about their ears and can help to boost self-esteem and confidence.
Can I get an otoplasty on the NHS?
Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is considered a cosmetic procedure and is typically not covered by the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom. The NHS only funds treatments that are clinically necessary and that have been proven to be cost-effective. The NHS does not fund treatments that are considered to be primarily for cosmetic reasons or for conditions that are not causing any significant discomfort or impairment to the patient’s quality of life.
However, in some cases, the NHS may consider funding otoplasty if the patient has a severe case of prominent ears that is causing significant psychological distress and if the patient has exhausted all other non-surgical options. In these cases, the patient would need to be referred by their GP to a specialist plastic surgeon, and the procedure would be done in a hospital setting.
It’s important to note that funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, and the availability of funding can vary depending on the location and the availability of resources. It’s best to check with your GP or the local NHS trust for more information on the funding criteria and availability for otoplasty in your area.
Otoplasty Surgery at Centre for Surgery
Otoplasty or prominent ear correction is a highly effective procedure to reshape or resize the ears. to learn more about otoplasty surgery, contact the Centre for Surgery today at 020 993 4849 to schedule an in-person consultation at our state-of-the-art Baker street clinic in Marylebone. Our treatment philosophy is focused on carrying out a thorough clinical assessment to enable a customised treatment plan to help you achieve the best surgical outcome.
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