Protruding Ears
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Ear Surgery – OtoplastyProtruding ears are a physical characteristic that can cause children to suffer needless ridicule, which can stimulate a poor self-image. Otoplasty surgery is a procedure that corrects protruding ears. It can be done after the age of five or six. Adults can also benefit from this procedure when they are tired of limiting their hairstyles to cover their ears. Under this procedure, the ears are reshaped and resized. You can discuss options for correcting your specific needs with your surgeon. Is Otoplasty For You?As with all elective procedures, good health and realistic expectations make for the best surgical results. It is important to realize that changing the shape or size of the ear will not alter a person’s hearing abilities. It is important to consider the child’s best interest. A positive attitude towards surgery is an important factor when considering the procedure. Adult patients need to be aware that firmer cartilage does not allow the same molding capabilities as it does for children who undergo this surgery. A consultation with a facial plastic surgeon can help you understand what is best for you or your child. Timing is an important consideration for both psychological and physical reasons. Cartilage is softer and lends itself to more shaping on younger patients. Children can benefit from an improved self-image due to a cosmetic improvement. Making the Decision For OtoplastyA consultation with a qualified facial plastic surgeon will provide you with information regarding your ear’s physical characteristics and structure. At the consultation, we will discuss the procedure, review the fees and assess your physical history. For younger patients and some adults, the procedure is primarily performed in an outpatient surgery facility. If this is the case, anesthesia and fees for both the surgical center and the physician, will be discussed. Many adult patients can have this procedure done under a local anesthesia in our in-office surgical suite. Photographs will be taken prior to scheduling your surgery. The physician will discuss which facility will be best for you. Understanding the SurgerySurgery begins with a small incision to the natural crease behind the ear. The physician will remove any excess cartilage, and do the necessary reshaping to achieve the desired result. In some cases, the cartilage does not need to be repositioned or removed and the physician will use sutures to hold the ear back into the corrected position until natural healing can occur.
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