Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that focuses on reshaping and repositioning the ears to create a more harmonious and proportional look. Also known as ear surgery or ear pinning, otoplasty is commonly performed to address prominent ears, correct ear asymmetry, or reshape ears affected by congenital deformities or injuries. Otoplasty is commonly performed on children before the age of six, as this is when the ear cartilage is still soft and flexible, making it more conducive to surgical manipulation. However, the procedure can be done on individuals of any age.
Good candidates for otoplasty, or ear surgery, typically include individuals who:
During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Aimé to discuss your aesthetic goals, whether for yourself or your child, review of medical history and discuss treatment options. Dr. Aimé will carefully assess the shape, position, and size of your ears, and discuss the most suitable surgical approach for your specific needs. She will provide a thorough explanation of the entire procedure, including inherent risks, and address any questions or concerns you may have. Medical photographs will be taken for your chart. If you decide to move forward with ear surgery, a surgical date will be chosen. Depending on you or your child's comfort level, ear surgery can be performed awake in the office under local anesthesia or at a surgery center under general anesthesia.
Otoplasty surgery is performed by first numbing the ear and then making an incision in the natural crease behind the ear. The cartilage is then carefully reshaped by folding, scoring or removing excess cartilage and then sutured in place using permanent sutures. The incision is then closed with resorbable sutures and a soft dressing is applied over the ears to protect them during the initial healing phase.
Recovery from otoplasty surgery varies from person to person. Initially a lightly compressive bandage will be applied around your head to protect your ears. This is usually changed within several days of the procedure to ensure that your incisions are healing well. After the bandage is removed, patients are instructed to wear a headband day and night for 2 weeks followed by an additional 2 weeks just at night. Showering and gently washing hair can resume once the bandage is removed. Sutures are usually removed 1 - 2 weeks after the procedure. Mild to moderate pain, some bleeding, swelling and bruising are common after the procedure. Most individuals can return to work or school within one week.
The following are reputable organizations that provide information specifically for plastic surgery patients on this and other procedures.
American Society of Plastic Surgery
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/ear-surgery
American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
https://www.theaestheticsociety.org/procedures/head-face/ear-surgery
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