Otoplasty Shirley, Southampton

What is pinnaplasty? The medical term for the external ear is the ‘pinna’.  A pinna-plasty alters the shape of the external ear.  In almost all cases this involves altering prominent ear so that it sits closer to the side of the head.  People talk about ‘pinning’ ears…..no pins are involved!  The shape and position of the ear is corrected by scoring the cartilage in the ear and / or holding it in a new position with stitches.  A headband is worn full time for a week to protect the corrected ears. Why do ears stick out? This is simply a variation between humans.  The cartilage of the pinna is a complex of folds and recesses which forms during the first few months of foetal development.  In most cases the prominent ear will have quite a deep bowl ‘concha’ immediately next to the ear hole.   Additionally, the principal fold in the mid and upper section of the pinna has a very open angle or it is deficient altogether.  Prominent ears can be a source of ridicule and self-consciousness and for this reason patients frequently ask for the ears to be corrected. How are prominent ears corrected? In adults, this surgery is usually done as awake surgery with local anaesthetic.  Children would routinely have general anaesthetic and some adult patients may prefer to have general anaesthetic also.  

Consultations are typically 30-40 mins and involve a thorough discussion about case history, treatments, review of example cases and photos and physical examination.It may be possible to arrange a free 15 minute consultation or teleconsultation if you are unsure about committing to a full appointment. Consultations are at the McIndoe Centre, East Grinstead. Sussex RH19 3UD.  Wednesdays or Fridays.   other locations - KIMS hospital, Maidstone; North Downs Hospital, Caterham.

Does Breast Implant Surgery require a general anaesthetic or hospitalisation? Breast Implant Surgery is usually a 1-night-stay or a day-case operation which is carried out under general anaesthetic. What are my options for the type of implants? Various types of Breast Implants are available and the optimum implant for you will depend on your goals and existing size and shape. Breast implant types are Silicone or Saline filled, round or teardrop shaped and can be low, medium, high or extra high profile in order to achieve the best aesthetic natural result.  There are differences in the outer layer of implants also.  I usually use Motiva or Mentor implants which ahve a good safety and manufacturing record. Where will the implants be placed in Breast Augmentation Surgery? Breast implants can usually be placed directly behind the breast tissue.   If the breast tissue is thin over the upper part of the breast then it may be preferable to place the implant more deeply, under the pectoral muscle. In either position, what you will see and feel is your own breast tissue.  The goal is to achieve the optimum natural appearance of your breasts. How long is the recovery time? Most patients report that their surgery was much less painful than they expected. Moderate pain / discomfort is expected for 3 – 5 days. You may return to your normal daily activities the next day if you feel ready and comfortable to do so.  You should however avoid strenuous exercise / activity for 6 weeks. It will be necessary to wear a support bra for the first 3 weeks, day and night and the second 3 weeks during the day. The majority of swelling will resolve in 2 – 3 weeks but it will take up to 3 months for the breast to return to normal feel.