Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure which can reduce the size of large ears or reposition prominent or protruding ears so that they are closer to the head. Otoplasty can also reshape misshapen or irregular-looking ears to make them appear normal. The surgery may be performed on younger patients once the ears are fully grown, typically around the age of four. Performing the surgery at a young age can be very beneficial, lessening the psychological and emotional discomfort a child may have to endure. Some patients prefer to undergo otoplasty in adulthood.
Dr. Schwartz performs otoplasty in an outpatient surgery center using local anesthesia and sedation. The surgery typically takes one to two hours to complete. Incisions are commonly located on the back of the ear, resulting in a small, well-concealed scar. Once the incisions are made, different techniques may be used. In some cases, the cartilage will be sculpted and the ear bent back toward the head, sometimes with the use of non-removable stitches to maintain the new shape. In other cases, a piece of cartilage may be removed to create a more natural-looking fold. Both ears are typically treated in order to achieve the best balance.
The recovery after ear surgery takes about one week. Medication can help to control any discomfort that patients experience, which may include some aching or throbbing of the ears. A bandage is typically applied to the ears after surgery, which is replaced in a few days with a lighter headband-like dressing. Some swelling, numbness, and redness may occur. The stitches are removed or dissolve on their own in about one week. Patients are typically able to return to work or school within five to seven days, though more strenuous activities and contact sports will need to be avoided for one to two months.
Otoplasty FAQ
What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure which can improve the appearance of the ears. Can reduce the size of large ears, set back prominent or protruding ears closer to the head, and reshape misshapen or irregular-looking ears to make them appear normal.
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
Healthy individuals looking to improve the appearance of large, prominent or misshapen ears may be good candidates for otoplasty. The procedure can be performed as early as age four, which can help to lessen the psychological and emotional discomfort that children may otherwise endure. Otoplasty is also performed on adults.
At what age can otoplasty be performed?
Otoplasty can be performed once the ears are fully grown, which typically occurs around the age of four. There are many benefits to performing the surgery at an early age as it can lessen the emotional and psychological discomfort a child may otherwise have to endure.
What happens at a consultation for otoplasty?
During the consultation with Dr. Schwartz you will discuss what it is that you dislike about your ears and what you hope to achieve through surgery. Your ears will be examined, a thorough medical history taken, and your options discussed. All details of the procedure will be explained and any questions or concerns that you may have will be addressed.
Learn more about ear surgery.