Dr. Shirin Zarbakhsh Etemadi talks about Earfold, a very novel treatment to correct prominent or “protruding” ears in a minimally invasive way. It was created as a non-surgical alternative to traditional otoplasty.
What does the treatment consist of?
The correction is achieved by inserting a small implant that allows us to fix the cartilage of the protruding ear, as if we were stapling it. The insertion of the Earfold® implant is performed under local anesthesia through an incision of about 10 mm. With the passage of time the scar is imperceptible. It may be necessary to use two implants per ear.
Who is it for?
This procedure can be performed on both adults and children. Children wear the device for about 9 months to allow up to 80% cartilage correction to take place. Adults wear it permanently. It can be safely removed, if the patient wishes, at any time.
Advantages of the treatment
The results of the earFold® treatment or procedure can be seen immediately after insertion of the implant. However, as there is some postoperative swelling, it is necessary to wait 1-2 weeks to see the definitive result. Another advantage of this treatment is that, with the help of testers, the patient can see the result of the treatment before it is performed and even participate with the surgeon in deciding on the position of the implant.
Is it uncomfortable and how is the recovery?
Recovery after treatment or intervention with earFold® implants is relatively quick, so that the patient returns to normal life within 12 hours. Swelling and bruising usually subside 1-2 weeks after treatment. The discomfort or pain of the intervention subsides within 24-48 hours after the insertion of the implant. The use of bandages or compressive garments is not necessary. One month after the treatment, the patient can return to his usual physical activity. For more information you can consult with a specialist in Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery.