Ear Correction (Ear Pinning, Ear Shaping)
Protruding ears often lead to psychological distress. That is why ear pinning may be performed on very young patients at school age.
The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia (for children). It involves shaping the ear cartilage and bending it back towards the head. Because the incision is made in the back of the ear, the scar will be practically invisible.
Swelling and bruising of the treatment area is possible and may last up to a few weeks. Stitches are removed on the 7th postoperative day and return to normal activity is possible within 10 days. To help reduce swelling, patients are instructed to wear an elastic pressure garment for 4 weeks.
The surgery is performed on patients who are in general good shape and have normal lab results.
Contraindications to the surgery
- unrealistic expectations of the patient
- active infectious disease
- mental illness
- untreated hypertension
- untreated heart diseases
- untreated diabetes
- untreated hormonal imbalances
- untreated bronchial asthma
- venous thrombosis
- menstrual bleeding
- pregnancy
Lab tests required
General anaesthesia:
- blood group
- CBC
- coagulation parameters (PT/INR, APTT)
- electrolytes (Na, K)
- glucose
- creatinine
- anti-HCV and anti-HIV antibodies
- urinalysis
- electrocardiogram
- chest X-ray
Local anaesthesia:
- blood group
- CBC
- coagulation parameters (PT/INR, APTT)
- electrolytes (Na, K)
The patient must be vaccinated against hepatitis B virus.
Preparation for the surgery
Before the scheduled surgery, you have to inform the doctor about any existing medical conditions as well as about any medications you are taking or allergies you have.
- at least 4 weeks before the scheduled surgery you have to stop taking any hormonal contraception or replacement therapy (HRT);
- at least 3 weeks before the scheduled surgery you must refrain from smoking
- 14 days prior to the surgery you should not take any salicylates (Aspirin, Polopiryna, etc.) or other substances affecting blood coagulation (e.g. herbs, garlic);
- 3 days before the surgery you must refrain from taking pain medication: paracetamol, pyralgin and NSAID drugs (e.g. Ketonal, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, etc.);
- 6 hours before the surgery you must refrain from eating, drinking or chewing gum;
- you must take your chronic medication with a small amount of water.