what are dog ears in plastic surgery

Natashya

3 min read

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22-12-2024

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Dog ears, in the context of plastic surgery, are undesirable, protruding, or oddly shaped pieces of skin that can result from surgical procedures, particularly those involving wound closure. They're often described as resembling the ears of a dog, hence the name. While not always a major medical concern, they are considered a cosmetic imperfection, and many patients seek revision surgery to correct them.

Causes of Dog Ears After Surgery

Several factors can contribute to the formation of dog ears:

• Excessive Skin Removal: Removing too much skin during the initial surgery can leave the wound edges under tension. This tension pulls the skin together unevenly, resulting in the characteristic pointed, dog-ear appearance.

• Poor Wound Closure Technique: Improper surgical techniques, such as poorly placed sutures or inadequate skin undermining, can also lead to dog ear formation. The surgeon's skill and experience significantly impact the final outcome.

• Wound Tension: Even with appropriate skin removal, significant tension on the wound edges, particularly in areas with limited skin elasticity, can increase the likelihood of dog ear formation. This is more common in areas with significant scarring or skin laxity.

• Scar Tissue Formation: Excessive scar tissue formation during the healing process can contribute to the puckering and protrusion associated with dog ears. This is particularly true in individuals prone to hypertrophic or keloid scarring.

Areas Commonly Affected by Dog Ears

While dog ears can appear after any surgery involving wound closure, some areas are more prone than others:

• Facelifts: Facelifts, involving significant skin excision and repositioning, are a common source of dog ears. The tension placed on the skin during a facelift makes it a particularly challenging procedure.

• Breast Reductions: Reduction mammoplasty (breast reduction) can also result in dog ears, particularly around the breast tissue.

• Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty): The significant skin excision involved in a tummy tuck can result in dog ears along the incision line.

• Other Procedures: Dog ears are also possible after other surgical procedures such as excision of lesions or trauma repair.

Correcting Dog Ears: Revision Surgery

If dog ears are present and bothersome to the patient, revision surgery is typically necessary to correct them. The technique used depends on the severity and location of the dog ears:

• Surgical Excision: In many cases, the excess skin forming the dog ear can be surgically removed and the wound edges meticulously closed. This often involves precise suture placement and meticulous attention to detail.

• Z-Plasty: A Z-plasty is a surgical technique that reorients the skin tension lines to reduce scarring and improve the cosmetic outcome. It's often used to correct dog ears and minimize the visibility of the revision scar.

• Other Advanced Techniques: In more complex cases, other advanced techniques may be necessary, including skin grafting.

Important Considerations:

• Timing: Revision surgery for dog ears is typically performed after the initial wound has fully healed, usually several months later. This allows ample time for the initial scar tissue to mature.

• Scarring: While revision surgery aims to improve the cosmetic outcome, some degree of scarring is unavoidable. The goal is to minimize the visibility and improve the appearance of the scar.

• Choosing a Surgeon: Selecting a highly experienced and skilled plastic surgeon is crucial for optimal results. Research and consult multiple surgeons before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to heal from dog ear revision surgery?

A: Recovery time varies but generally takes several weeks. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common during the initial healing period.

Q: Will I have noticeable scars after dog ear revision?

A: While some scarring is inevitable, a skilled surgeon will strive to minimize its visibility through careful surgical technique and appropriate post-operative care.

Q: How much does dog ear revision surgery cost?

A: The cost of the procedure depends on several factors, including the surgeon's fees, anesthesia costs, and facility fees. It's best to consult with a surgeon to obtain a personalized estimate.

In conclusion, dog ears are a common complication of certain surgical procedures. While not a medical emergency, many patients find them aesthetically unappealing. Revision surgery is a viable option for correcting dog ears and improving the overall cosmetic outcome. Always consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific concerns and treatment options.