Pixie ears refer to when the earlobe merges with the skin on the face. The stretched earlobe then makes the person appear like a pixie. This can be something you are born with, can be caused by wound contraction, or more commonly, caused by a facelift procedure which has been performed badly or incorrectly. The pixie ear will develop as a result of too much tension in the skin, which is sometimes the result of a badly done facelift.
Fortunately, the earlobe can be repaired with pixie ear correction.
Am I a good candidate for pixie ear correction?
Pixie ear correction is a good procedure for those who have been born with earlobes that have no shape and are merged onto the skin on their face, or the look has been achieved as a result of a facelift.
Candidates will need to be at least 18 years old to proceed with surgery.
You will be able to meet with a surgeon during an initial consultation, who will be able to determine whether or not you are eligible for a pixie ear correction.
What does pixie ear correction involve?
Prior to having pixie ear correction, you will be given a local anaesthetic, which will ensure you do not feel any pain or discomfort for the entirety of the procedure.
There are various surgical techniques which can be used for pixie ear correction. Analysis of your ear and whether or not you had a previous facelift will help to determine the method used for your particular surgery.
One of the more common methods is a minimally invasive technique. This involves removing the existing scar which was as a result of a facelift, which then allows the earlobe to be repositioned into its correct position. This method involves new incisions, which will leave you with new scars. However, the new scars will be discreetly placed around the ear and cheek.
The procedure may take between 40 to 60 minutes to complete.
In some instances, patients will be unhappy with the initial facelift they received. In these cases, a repeat facelift can take place which fixes the appearance of the face, as well as corrects the pixie ears. However, if you are satisfied with your initial facelift, you may wish to opt for the minimally invasive technique instead.
What is the recovery period like?
Pixie ear correction is performed as a day-case procedure, so you will be able to leave after the surgery is complete.
You may notice some redness and swelling, particularly around the incision area. If necessary, you can place an ice pack on the ears, which may help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling, therefore speeding up the recovery period.
Dissolvable stitches will be used, so stitches will not need to be removed. However, you may be required to attend a follow-up session with your surgeon, which will allow the surgeon to monitor your progress, and give you the opportunity to ask any questions and have the ears checked.
It is important to avoid sleeping on your sides so you can avoid any injury to the ears and the incision sites. It is recommended that you also sleep with your head elevated with multiple pillows. This will help to reduce swelling and ensure you have a faster recovery period.
Do you wish to have pixie ear correction? Contact Centre for Surgery today for more details, to see if you are eligible or to book a consultation with one of our surgeons.
