Ear Pinning Surgery (Otoplasty)
Corrective ear surgery, or otoplasty, is used to reduce the appearance of prominent ears or correct other congenital abnormalities of the ears. The goal of most otoplasty is to set the ear back closer to the head or reduce the size of excessively large ears.
Consultation
Consultation for otoplasty includes an extensive evaluation and discussion of the patient's expectations and concerns. Your surgeon will review your medical history, evaluate your ears, and take photographs. He or she will discuss the surgical options, recommend what approach will yield the best results for you, and discuss the limits and risks of surgery.
Candidates
The best candidates for otoplasty are children aged 5 years and older. Ears are almost fully grown by this age. Because children also can be teased about their prominent ears, it is reasonable to correct the problem before it results in low self-esteem.
Ear surgery also is possible for adults.
The Procedure
Otoplasty may be performed in our office operating room suite or the hospital, depending on the patient's age. Children usually receive general anesthesia, whereas adults may have the procedure performed under a local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Surgery usually lasts 2 to 3 hours.
During otoplasty, an incision is made on the back of the ear and the ear is sculpted so that the ears are located closer to the head. Most patients go home with a head dressing after surgery. This dressing must remain in place until the patient's follow-up visit about a week after surgery.
Recovery and Results
Otoplasty patients receive thorough instructions about what to do to prepare for and recover from surgery. Most patients receive dissolvable sutures. Some patients describe having discomfort for a few days after surgery. A head band may be required for a brief period to encourage proper healing, and swelling may persist for several months.
Although patients must limit certain activities for several weeks, almost all may return to school or work in about a week.
Once swelling has resolved and healing is complete, the ears will have a much more natural appearance.
