Understanding Refractory Chronic Cough: What You Need to Know Have you ever faced a cough that simply refuses to subside? While most coughs resolve independently, some persist for an unacceptable length of time—weeks, months, or even years. This condition is known as refractory chronic cough (RCC), and it is a significant issue that demands attention in the medical community, especially among specialists in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care. In this blog post, we will clearly outline what RCC is, why it occurs, and the most promising treatments available to those suffering from relentless coughing. What is Refractory Chronic Cough? A chronic cough is defined as one that lasts longer than eight weeks in adults. For many individuals, it is associated with conditions such as asthma, allergies, acid reflux, or certain medications. However, there are instances where the cough continues even after these underlying causes have been effectively ad...
When you decide to have your ear pinned back or any cosmetic procedure think what exactly you want to change in shape. Ear shape had been prominent for a long time so what exactly triggered to go for the procedure. Evidence suggests that having prominent ears can affect self-esteem and confidence. Next thing to do research about your procedure, recovery and possible complications and outcome. It is always good to write any query you have before you do your consultation.
The average cost of ear correction surgery (pinnaplasty) in the UK ranges from £3500 - £5000. You should always think of any additional cost of consultation or investigations required. It is very important to discuss this with the hospital and surgeon as cosmetic surgery are not covered by most insurance companies and on NHS.
An absent ear fold or large conchal bowl or a combination of both can make your ear look prominent. If the protrusion is more than 2 centimetres, then they may appear prominent. Around 2% of the UK population have prominent ears.
What happens on pre-procedure consultation for pinnaplasty or otoplasty?
The surgeon will discuss with you your expectations, which deformity you are looking at corrected, management options you have, recovery time, aftercare and possible complications.
The procedure can be done under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic. The procedure is done by a small incision behind the ear, extra skin is removed, and cartilage is sutured to achieve the desired fold. The procedure usually takes one to two hours to complete. Post-procedure you have a head bandage for 7 days to allow initial healing and protect from infection. So you will not be able to wash your hair.
What to expect after the procedure?
Ears are a bit sore after the procedure. You should be able to control the pain with regular pain killers. The bruising behind the ear may last for a couple of weeks so plan your school or office work accordingly. Tingling or numbness over-ear should fade away over time. Once the bandage is removed after a week you will need to wear an elastic band (Swimmers headband Band-IT / Zoggs) every night for six weeks. Do not do any contact sports for six months. You should be able to start light exercise after six weeks and swimming after three months.
Complications are very rare after pinnaplasty. Main complications being infection and bleeding. If it starts to be very sore post-surgery, this could be a sign of infection which can be controlled by antibiotics. Always inform your surgeon if you are taking any blood thinner or herbal tablets.
There is a very small risk if your stitches do not hold the cartilage in the desired shape which may require revision surgery. There is a very small risk of forming keloid or thick red scar which may require treatment with steroid injections or revision surgery.
What are the limitations of pinnaplasty surgery?
Surgery is offered after the age of five with good results after the age of seven. Before this age, the cartilage is still growing and very soft to hold stitches. At birth, the ear can be folded using tape or ear buddies until six months to one year.
Mr Gaurav Kumar
Ear Nose Throat Consultant
To Book An Appointment
Book Appointment Online
Call 07494914140
Email entappointmentuk@gmail.co.uk
Disclaimer: For general information only, always seek medical advice from your treating consultant