EAR SURGERY

Also known as otoplasty, ear surgery can correct defects in the ear structure and improve the shape, position and proportion of the ear. Protruding or disfigured ears can be embarrassing and may affect your ability to project confidence. Otoplasty can help create a natural shape that brings balance and proportion to the overall look of your face. The correction of the most minor deformities will profoundly increase self-esteem.

The Ear Surgery Procedure

Ear surgery is typically performed to bring prominent ears back closer to the head, or to reduce the size of large ears. Ear surgery can also correct defects that may have been present in the ear at birth or defects that have occurred through injury.

THE METHOD

Depending upon the individual and technique employed, otoplasty can take about 2-3 hours. One of the most common techniques of this procedure includes the creation of a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage will then be sculpted and bent backwards, toward the head. Permanent stitches may also be used to maintain this new shape.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

Children who are healthy and have no life threatening illnesses or chronic ear infections are good candidates for ear surgery. However, the child must be cooperative and follow directions well. Teenagers and adults who are non-smokers and have a positive outlook on their esthetic goals are also good candidates.

RECOVERY/POST-OPERATIVE

• Temporary discomfort for 3-5 days post surgery
• Temporary head dressing to protect the ears
• Stitches typically removed or dissolved within a week
• Adults may return back to work in approximately 5 days post surgery
• Children may return back to school in approximately 7 days post surgery