Prominent ear or bat ear is a condition in which the ear is so highly developed that it is noticeably far from the body. It is a very common condition and affects a large percentage of people all over the world.
Prominent ear causes many psychological problems for people who suffer from it, as they feel disturbed and embarrassed by the shape of their ears. This may lead to low self-confidence, poor self-image, and unwillingness to socialize with others.
the reasons
editProminent ear is the result of a difference in the formation of the cartilage in the ear, specifically at the back of the ear called the "greater ridge". Prominent ears can be caused by several factors, including:
Heredity: Prominent ears may be passed down through generations and run in families.
Ear development: There may be a mismatch in the growth of the ear causing it to form abnormally.
Lack of necessary fat: In some cases, prominent ears can occur due to the lack of necessary fat in the ear, which affects the shape of the ear.
The ears can be affected differently, and the prominent ear may occur in one ear or both. It is important to ascertain the exact cause of the condition before starting treatment, in order to choose the most appropriate method to correct the abnormal shape of the ear.
treatment
editThere are several ways to treat prominent ears, including:
Surgery: Surgery is the most effective way to treat a prominent ear. In the surgery, the cartilage in the ear is reshaped and brought closer to the head. The surgery can be performed under local anesthesia and takes about two hours.
Using adhesive tapes: You can use adhesive tapes for the ear to reduce the visibility of the prominent ear, but this method is not effective enough in some cases.
Laser ear correction: Laser treatment is used to correct the shape of the protruding ear by heating and precise shaping of the soft tissues in the ear, and it takes several sessions to get a satisfactory result.
It should be noted that an individual who suffers from a prominent ear should consult a doctor who specializes in otolaryngology to determine the most appropriate option for his condition. Although surgery is considered the most effective way to treat protruding ears, the potential risks and complications of this operation must be confirmed before proceeding with it.
Surgical risks:
editProminent ear surgery is generally safe, but like any surgery, it carries some risks and potential side effects. Among the possible side effects:
1- Swelling and pain in the treated area. These symptoms can be alleviated by applying ice to the affected area.
2- Light bleeding from the treated area, which can be controlled by using direct pressure on the area.
3- Inflammation in the treated area, which can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs
4- A change in the normal shape or appearance of the ear, and this matter can be temporary or permanent, and therefore it is important to talk with the surgeon about the expected results.
5- Problems such as infection or large scars rarely occur, but this happens in a very small percentage.
The person should talk with the surgeon about the potential risks and expected results before the operation, and the possible reasons for the risks and side effects should be identified and explained clearly to the patient
What are the steps to be followed after the operation?
editAfter the protruding ear operation, some instructions and steps must be followed to ensure a quick recovery, reduce the risk of side effects, and ensure good results. These steps include:
1- Rest: You must get enough rest and avoid any strenuous activities or load the treated ear with heavy weights for at least 6 weeks.
2- Cooling: Ice can be used to reduce puffiness and swelling in the treated area, and ice packs should be used for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
3- Pain: Painkillers can be taken, but a doctor should be consulted before taking any kind of medication.
4- Wound care: The treated area should be covered with clean bandages and changed regularly. Strong friction should be avoided.
5- Monitoring: The treated area should be monitored to ensure that there are no signs of inflammation or infection, and a doctor should be contacted if any abnormal signs appear.
6- Follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to assess progress and ensure good results.
You should not perform any strenuous activities, heavy lifting or intense sports without the doctor's approval, and the instructions given by your surgeon should be adhered to in order to achieve the best results.
Sources
editSources used:
1- Mayo Clinic: Otoplasty (ear surgery) https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/otoplasty/about/pac-20394851 2- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Ear Surgery https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/ear-surgery 3- MedlinePlus: Otoplasty https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002982.htm 4- Healthline: Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) https://www.healthline.com/health/otoplasty 5- British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons: Pinnaplasty https://www.bapras.org.uk/patients/procedures-and-treatments/pinnaplasty 6- NHS: Ear correction surgery (otoplasty) https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/ear-correction-[surgery](poe://www.poe.com/_api/key_phrase?phrase=surgery&prompt=Tell%20me%20more%20about%20surgery.)-otoplasty/ 7- WebMD: Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-ear-surgery [[Category:Ear]]