What Is Macrotia?
Macrotia, sometimes referred to as “big ear syndrome”, makes the ears appear larger than normal. The condition tends to affect children, causing the ears to look large and out of proportion relative to the head.
Some of the reasons why macrotia occurs include:
- Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome (BFLS): A rare genetic disorder that can cause seizures, intellectual disabilities, and obesity. Large, fleshy earlobes may develop due to BFLS.
- Fragile X Syndrome: A genetic disorder that causes learning disabilities and cognitive impairment. Large ears are a prominent facial feature in fragile X syndrome patients, and they tend to become more noticeable as a patient gets older.
- Trichorhinophalangeal Syndrome Type II (TRPS II): A medical condition that causes bone and joint malformations. Large, laterally protruding ears may form due to TRPS II.
- Melnick-Needles Syndrome: A rare medical disorder that causes skeletal abnormalities and other health issues. Melnick-Needles Syndrome can also cause large ears, along with hearing loss due to malformations of tiny bones in the ears.
Regardless of why a patient experiences macrotia, it is important to pursue all available treatment options. In doing so, a patient may be able to undergo treatment to reduce the size of the ears without impacting their function.
On average, the length of a child’s ear is approximately 6 cm. For adults, the length of the ear may extend to 6.5 cm.
In patients dealing with macrotia, the length of the ear may exceed 6.5 cm. In this instance, it may be beneficial to consult with Dr. Azizzadeh to learn about otoplasty surgery to reduce the size of the ears.
How Is Macrotia Reduction Surgery Performed?
Before an otoplasty is performed, Dr. Azizzadeh requests a patient consultation. Dr. Azizzadeh uses the consultation to evaluate the patient and review their medical history. This allows Dr. Azizzadeh to determine if ear reduction can be safely performed. If Dr. Azizzadeh recommends ear reduction surgery, he crafts a custom treatment plan for his patient, as well as responds to any treatment concerns or questions.
During an ear reduction procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh wants to simultaneously reduce the size of the patient’s ears without compromising the patient’s hearing. He also wants to ensure the ears will appear proportional to the patient’s head.
To accomplish his desired results, Dr. Azizzadeh uses careful, precise techniques throughout ear reduction surgery. The ears are delicate, and Dr. Azizzadeh does everything possible to limit the risk of ear damage during surgery.
A typical ear reduction procedure requires three to six hours to complete. Prior to surgery, a patient may receive general anesthesia. Then, a small incision is made into the back of the patient’s ear. Dr. Azizzadeh next removes excess cartilage and skin from the ear. He sculpts any remaining tissue, ensuring the ear appears smaller and more proportional to the head.
Patients may experience some discomfort following surgery. Dressing is placed on the ears, and it is usually removed one week after treatment.
A patient typically requires a week away from school or work after an ear reduction procedure. Dr. Azizzadeh also provides patients with instructions they can use to protect their ears during recovery.
Ear Reduction Surgery Cost
The cost of ear reduction surgery is discussed during an initial consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh. In some instances, insurance may cover the surgery if it is required due to a functional ear problem. Also, Dr. Azizzadeh offers financing options for ear reduction and other surgeries.
Is Ear Reduction Surgery Right for You?
A consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh is crucial for those who are considering ear reduction. The consultation allows Dr. Azizzadeh to examine a patient and determine their eligibility for ear reduction surgery or other treatment options.
Schedule an Ear Reduction Treatment Consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh
Dr. Azizzadeh is available to discuss macrotia reduction surgery. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, please contact us online or call us today at 310-657-2203.