Due to our genetics, people can have a variety of different ear shapes, sizes, and positions. Ear structure defects are not uncommon and typically occur at the time of birth or early developmental stages. In other cases, an injury to the ear can alter appearance. This can lead to physical issues, as well as lowered self-esteem for both children and adults. If issues with the appearance or structure of the ear are affecting you or your child, read more about otoplasty to learn about this solution.

What Is Ear Surgery?

Otoplasty is a procedure that allows us to alter the shape of the ear, letting us address any deformities and restore balance, as well as ear proportion. This procedure can allow us to reduce the size of the ears, treat ears that protrude that are not associated with conditions like loss of hearing, and fix poor results from past procedures received elsewhere. Because ear deformities often become present in childhood, this procedure is also available for children. 

Who Is a Candidate for Ear Surgery?

Because children are potential candidates for this procedure, it’s important to take several factors into consideration. Children who receive this surgery should be generally healthy and should not have any major underlying conditions that could threaten their health during surgery. Children under 5 are not ideal candidates, as their cartilage has not stabilized enough at that point. Children should be able to follow and understand instructions, and if they express distress or object during discussions, they are not ideal candidates, as they are making it clear that they don’t consent to the surgery.

In terms of adults, candidates should be relatively healthy overall and should be willing to discuss medical history and expectations with us during a consultation. Candidates should not be smoking or be willing to stop smoking leading up to the surgery.

What to Expect During an Ear Surgery Procedure

Prior to the procedure, physical examinations will most likely need to be done. You or your child may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements leading up to surgery, including anti-inflammatory medications, which can increase bleeding. You should make travel arrangements for you or your child beforehand and have someone stay with you or your child during the first night of recovery.

Anesthesia will be given either generally or locally to make sure that you or your child are comfortable. The technique used will depend on the anatomy of the patient and the desired results. For ears that protrude, an incision will be made on the ear’s rear surface. Cartilage will be repositioned and secured inside the ear, and the incisions will be sutured or otherwise closed. 

Ear Surgery Aftercare

Results can be seen immediately, and scars are usually relatively well-hidden. Some pain or discomfort following this procedure is common, and you might be given medication to help with the pain. Bandages need to remain in place as discussed with our team, even if an itching sensation occurs. Try to limit motion and contact with the area during recovery, especially during the first several days. Our team will give you a detailed plan on how to care for yourself and your child during recovery.

Schedule a Consultation

At Modern Aesthetic Plastic surgery, we want to make sure that patients of every age are comfortable, informed, and confident in our abilities. We strive to treat each patient with absolute respect, answering any questions or concerns you might have about yourself or your child. If you’re interested in learning more about otoplasty, schedule a consultation with us today.