The skin over the cartilage is usually quite thin and even relatively minor irregularities in the cartilage may be visible on close inspection following surgery. These are often not apparent at all to the casual observer however. It is difficult to get the two ears corrected to exactly the same end point though the surgeon always aims for and works hard toward this goal. The pictures below show the post-operative result in the child pictured above. The risks and complications associated with Otoplasty incude those risks associated with any operation involving general anesthesia.
Wound infection can occur and is very troublesome if it involves the cartilage.
This degree of wound infection is not common but it could result in severe deformity requiring further surgical procedures. It is possible for the sutures holding the new cartilage shape to pull through the cartilage or to break. Either event might lead to a need for revision of the reconstruction. Post operative care may involve the need to wear special bandages for a period of time. Always Only in severe cases Never 5.