ALL ABOUT otoplasty

BOOST SELF-CONFIDENCE WITH COSMETIC EAR SURGERY

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Around 5% of the population has prominent ears, making otoplasty — also known as cosmetic ear surgery — a sought-after procedure. The most commonly performed type of otoplasty, called ear pinning, helps people who feel self-conscious about ears that stick out conspicuously. Since our ears are around 90% grown by the time we start primary school, ear pinning can be performed as young as age five.

WHY OTOPLASTY?

Large or misshapen ears can offset facial balance to the point that sometimes the ears are the first thing you notice about a person. Understandably, those individuals may feel unhappy about their ears, and children can be teased and bullied by their peers. Ear plastic surgery, a permanent procedure that addresses the size, shape, and position of the ears, can address a variety of concerns. Issues include ears that protrude from the sides of the head, or that fold over on the top (lop ears). Or you may want to reshape ears that are asymmetrical or overly large in proportion to your facial features. Plastic surgeons also repair ears that have been injured and repair tears from piercing and excessive holes from wearing gauges.

AGING, DROOPY, OR CREASED EAR LOBES?

Have you looked in the mirror lately and thought, “What’s up with my ears?” Like everything else on your body, your ears can be affected by the changes of age. Cute ears that fit your facial structure when you were younger may look more prominent, and lobes may appear to grow and lengthen and even become wrinkled or creased. This is because gravity causes the cartilage in your ears to break down and sag. Luckily, there’s no real age limit for otoplasty as long as you’re healthy. Consult with a plastic surgeon to see if you’re a good candidate and to review recommended options.

IS MY CHILD READY FOR EAR PINNING?

If you wonder whether your child is ready for otoplasty, consider whether they can understand and want the procedure and can follow basic instructions given during the recovery process. Otoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia for children, so your plastic surgeon will take a thorough medical history to ensure the procedure can be safe and successful and will determine if their age is appropriate for the procedure.

OVERLY SMALL EARS?

In many cases, ear augmentation can be performed to increase the outer portion of the ear when ears are abnormally small or haven’t fully developed. This may require cartilage, often taken from the ribs or tissue grafting.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR COSMETIC EAR SURGERY?

Healthy children ages five and up are usually considered good candidates, and adults in good overall health with a healthy heart and lungs. If you smoke, don’t be surprised if you’re asked to quit two months before undergoing otoplasty. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will review your medical history, examine the ear size, shape, and placement, discuss corrective options, and answer questions about the procedure and recovery. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the results and to fully comply with all post-op instructions provided by your plastic surgeon for the best outcome.

Otoplasty Fast Facts

This one to three-hour outpatient procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Be prepared to sleep on your back for a couple of weeks after undergoing otoplasty.
Minimize swelling by keeping your head elevated, including while you sleep.
Avoid sudden head movements and bending over the first two to three days after surgery.
Incisions are usually “invisible” because they’re hidden at the back of the ear or inside the folds of the ear.
Results can be seen as early as two weeks after surgery.
If you had otoplasty before, per haps as a child, and aren’t satisfied, ask your plastic surgeon about a revision procedure to fine-tune
your results.
Adults should schedule a week off after surgery or arrange to work remotely.
Everyone experiences pain differently, but generally, postoperative pain from otoplasty is considered minimal. Expect ears to be swollen and sore for 24 to 72 hours.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure and extreme temperatures for a couple of months after ear surgery. After this, avoid tanning to prevent hyperpigmentation of scars.
Avoid activities during recovery that may interfere with healing, including wearing headphones or ear pods.