Otoplasty is surgery to reshape the ears to improve their appearance. Ears can be surgically reshaped, reduced in size, or made more symmetric.
Otoplasty is one of the most common procedures for children over the age of five. Otoplasty will not alter hearing ability.
Our physicians perform otoplasty surgery as an outpatient procedure at Community Medical Center. For younger children, general anesthesia is generally used. For older children or adults, the surgeon may use local anesthesia, sometimes combined with a sedative.
Surgeons use a variety of techniques to gently reshape and reposition the ear and create a natural three-dimensional contour. All the incisions are generally hidden in the crease behind the ear.
Ear surgery usually takes about two to three hours, although complicated procedures may take longer.
The surgeon makes a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. The surgeon will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, this approach will be combined with additional techniques to make the base of the ear less prominent.
In most cases, ear surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance.
Following surgery, bandages will be applied. Following the first postoperative visit, the bandages and stitches will be generally be removed. A lighter head dressing, similar to a headband, is often recommended, especially at night. Specific instructions will be provided by your surgeon.
As with any cosmetic medical procedure, results vary from patient to patient.