A common complaint when it comes to physical features that both men and women feel subconscious about is their ears. Fortunately, otoplasty, or ear surgery can help. Otoplasty alters the shape, size, and even the position of the external ear, called the pinna, for an improved overall appearance and increased confidence.
This is also true when it comes to correcting damage or trauma suffered by the ear, whether from birth or anytime thereafter.
Whatever the reason for an otoplasty, the goal of this ear surgery is to create an appearance of ears proportionate to the face whether viewing that person from the front, rear or side.
Opting for Otoplasty
You might consider an otoplasty if you feel subconscious about your ears. Maybe you think they are too big or stick out from your head further than they should. If you’ve suffered an injury that damaged the exterior of your ear, you could also be a good otoplasty candidate. Regardless of why you want or need an otoplasty, you should know that this kind of ear surgery will not compromise your hearing ability.
Otoplasties can be performed from a young age, once the ears have grown to their full size, which typically occurs after age five. However, some procedures are performed on children as young as three, often to correct birth defects.
Understanding an Otoplasty
Following your consultation, your otoplasty will be scheduled and is considered an out-patient procedure. Depending on your needs, you will either be given sedation and local anesthesia or general anesthesia ahead of your ear surgery.
An otoplasty takes approximately two hours, but is otherwise specific to each patient; surgical techniques differ depending on what is needed. For this reason, your incisions, and any potential scarring, might occur within the inner creases or on the backs of your ears. During an otoplasty, after the incisions are made, any excess skin and cartilage are removed. The cartilage is then folded and secured in place with stitches.
Once the procedure is complete, your surgeon will wrap bandages around each ear, which will stay on for a few days. During your follow-up appointment, the bandages will be removed and the healing process evaluated. Your surgeon will advise you about how quickly to resume regular activities.
If you’re ready to opt for an otoplasty, contact our office and request a consultation with Dr. Sterling.
