Otoplasty

(surgery of the ears)

Prominent or protruding ears can be a source of embarrassment and mental anguish for many people, especially children. In the past few decades, thousands of individuals have been physically as well as psychologically helped though a surgical procedure called otoplasty. Otoplasty, sometimes referred to as "pinning back" the ears, is designed to change their shape and contour. It may be performed on anyone over the age of five or six years old, the age at which ear growth is almost complete. For those children with severely protruding ears, it is recommended that the surgery be performed at an early age, before they are subjected to psychological stress related to the condition.

Before surgery

Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken to evaluate the general health of the patient. A careful examination is also conducted. The physician describes to the patient the type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected, and possible risks and complications. Photographs may be taken before and after surgery to evaluate the amount of improvement. Preoperative instructions may include the elimination of certain drugs containing aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics may be prescribed for a few days prior to surgery to prevent infection.

The procedure

Otoplasty can be performed in a physician's office, an outpatient surgical facility, or a hospital, depending on the surgeon's and patient's preference. It can be done under general anesthesia with the patient asleep or under local anesthesia in which the area is numbed and the patient remains awake. Premedication may be administered to relax the patient.

There are several surgical procedures which are designed to bring back the ears closer to the head. A basic procedure involves an incision made at the back of the ear to expose firm, pliable tissue called cartilage. The surgeon may either fold down the cartilage and use sutures to keep the folds together or remove excess cartilage. After reshaping the cartilage, the incisions are closed with small sutures and the ears are covered with bandages. The procedure can take up to two hours or more depending upon the extent of surgery.

Following surgery

Pain connected with the surgery is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. Bandages are removed within a few days but may be replaced with a lighter head dressing. Wearing a tennis headband for a period of time to hold back the ears may also be recommended. Bruising around the area occurs but fades within a few weeks. Some temporary swelling occurs but this condition can be alleviated by keeping the head elevated when reclining. Patients may be advised to sleep on a soft pillow but not directly on the ears. Six to eight days after surgery, patients may be allowed to shampoo their hair. Scars from the incisions fade significantly in time and are, for the most part, inconspicuous because the incisions are made within the creases of the ears. Although patients are usually up and around one or two days after surgery, the decision as to when normal activities can be resumed is determined by the physician and is based on the extent of surgery and the patient's healing process.

Each year thousands of Otoplasties are successfully performed. Occasionally a second procedure is necessary if an ear begins to protrude again. Complications of an infection are rare; however there are certain inherent risk connected to every surgical procedure which should thoroughly discussed with he physician prior to surgery. Patients can minimize complications by carefully following directions given by the physician.

If you are interested in learning more about otoplasty augmentation, please call our office at 570-674-6525 and we will be happy to answer your questions.

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The Renaissance Center for Plastic Surgery
113 North Memorial Highway
Shavertown, PA 18708
570-674-6525 voice
570-674-6520 fax