Otoplasty, commonly called ear reshaping plastic surgery, requires some advance preparation prior to scheduling the date of the procedure.
The surgeon will offer detailed guidelines for preparation during the initial consultation. There should be sufficient gap between the initial consultation and the date of the surgery to be able to undertake the preparatory steps.
Sometimes, the surgeon may recommend a few pre-operative tests, which will be scheduled well in advance of the otoplasty. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Weeks before Ear Surgery
In case the patient is taking any blood thinners, NSAIDs, or herbal supplements and vitamins, they will need to stop taking them for a specified duration before the otoplasty procedure. In case the patient is a child, the preparatory process may include parental or professional counseling to make sure that the child is ready and comfortable to undergo the procedure.
The parents or guardian should also inform the child’s school well ahead of the procedure as the child will have to remain at home for a few days after ear surgery and is likely to miss a few days at school. In addition, the surgeon will also showcase otoplasty before and after images to the patient to help them develop realistic expectations.
Smokers will need to discontinue smoking for a minimum of a few days prior to ear reshaping surgery. Stemming from that point, the patient may also need to make advance arrangements for aftercare for the initial few days of the recovery phase, if required.
A Day before the Surgery
If the ear reshaping plastic surgery is planned to be performed with general anesthesia, the surgeon will direct the patient to avoid eating or drinking anything for eight hours before the procedure.
Working professionals should apply for a leave of around one week from the workplace. The patient should also enlist someone responsible to drive them back home from the surgical facility.
Arranging for items such as pain drugs, ice packs, gauze bandage, and extra pillows at home in advance of the procedure can make the immediate post-operative stage more comfortable.
The Day of Surgery
The patient should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the surgical venue. They should avoid wearing any garments that are restrictive or need to be pulled overhead. Special care should be taken in the case of children to ensure that nothing bends or pulls at the ears following the surgery.
The patient should thoroughly wash their hair on the morning of the surgery. Women may braid or pin their hair, while men may have a hair cut if required. Also, the patient should avoid wearing jewelry, body piercings, contact lenses, or makeup to the surgery center. Patients who are diabetic should get their vital parameters assessed on the morning of their otoplasty procedure.
Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
