Otoplasty Surgery - Cosmetic Ear Procedure

The term "otoplasty" means "reshaping or reforming ears." Most often the procedure is performed to correct prominent ears by setting them back closer to the head. Ears come in all shapes and sizes, however, an "otoplasty" may refer to correction of a number of different ear deformities.

What Can This Surgery Change?

In adults this surgery is designed to correct the failure of the ear cartilage to mould or conform appropriately. It reduces a cup ear or protruding ear deformity. Protruding ears are frequently unsightly and can even lead to unhappiness with appearance and the inability to select hairstyles. The goal of the procedure is to provide ears that are reduced in size and made symmetrical with each other. Adult candidates should understand that firmer adult cartilage of fully developed ears does not provide the same moulding capacity as in children.

Understanding the Surgery

Otoplasty incisions are made behind the ear in the natural skin fold just behind the apex and posterior edge of the ear cartilage. In most instances cartilage is moulded and reshaped with the use of permanent stitches or sutures. In some cases it is necessary to trim or remove cartilage to produce the desired result.

This surgery may improve asymmetry which existed before the procedure. However, as with all facial plastic surgical procedures, it is impossible to achieve perfect symmetry due to variations in ear position and individual anatomy. Once the ears have been pinned back very slight differences between the two ears are no longer important as the ears are not really obvious any more.

ARE YOU RIGHT FOR THIS SURGERY?

Healthy individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations are appropriate candidates for this cosmetic procedure.  Ear surgery is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires, or to try to fit some sort of ideal image.  For more information or to book an appointment, contact us. 

What to expect after the surgery

• A soft tissue pressure dressing is applied to the ears that remains in place for approximately 5 - 7 days. The pressure dressing prevents leads to a more rapid appropriate cosmetic appearance.
• Most patients will experience mild discomfort with an abnormal sensation or tightness in the ears that can last for several weeks to months. 
• The procedure can be performed under a general anesthetic or with intravenous sedation, depending on patient preference.
• Most adults can return to full normal activities within 7 - 10 days.

For more information or to book an appointment, contact us.