Otoplasty, also known as cosmetic ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure to improve the shape, proportion, and position of the ears. Many people are born with ears that “stick out” or are unsymmetrical. Children are often teased about their ears which can cause long term self-esteem problems. Otoplasty can also be performed to reconstruct misshapen ears as a result of injury or birth defects.
Ideal Ear Surgery Candidates
- Healthy individuals who do not have other untreated medical conditions or life-threatening illnesses
- Children over the age of 5, when the cartiledge is stable enough for correction
- Non-smokers
Types of Otoplasty
Dr. Hirschfeld specializes in three main types of otoplasty procedures:
- Ear Pinback (Otoplexy)
This is the most common type of ear surgery performed to correct prominent ears that protrude from the head. Otoplexy results in flattening the appearance of protuberant ears and increases the facial balance and symmetry. - Ear Reduction
This type of surgery is performed to reduce the appearance of over-sized ears that are disproportionate to a person’s head. - Ear Augmentation
This type of procedure is performed to reconstruct underdeveloped and misshappen ears.
Otoplasty Operation & Recovery
Otoplasty is typically performed under sedation anesthesia in order to minimize discomfort during the surgical procedure. Post-surgical medications are also administered to reduce pain and optimize healing.
The recovery process may vary based on the individual and type of surgery. Immediately after surgery, a heavy dressing is applied to the area and usually remains for one to three days. Once the dressing is removed, the patient must wear a special headband for one to two weeks. This headband is designed to maximize results by holding the ears close to the head and minimizing movement. Most patients are able to return to normal activity within one week of surgery.