Otoplasty is a cosmetic ear surgery used to improve the size, shape, position, or proportion of the outer ear (pinna). Patients can choose from a variety of procedures based on their desired outcome. This procedure can be done at any age after the ears have reached their full size (age 5) through adulthood. Otoplasty is typically done on both ears to optimize symmetry. Since this is a cosmetic procedure it won’t change the location of your ears or alter your ability to hear but it can help prominent ears. You might consider otoplasty if:
Your ear or ears stick out too far from your head
Your ears are large in proportion to your head
You're dissatisfied with a previous ear surgery
What causes prominent ears?
Your outer ear is usually at a 21-30 degree to the side of the head, but if the angle is more than that your ears may appear “stuck out”. It may occur due to genetic features or health conditions affecting cartilage growth, or an injury. Prominent ears may run in families, but they often occur randomly.
What are the types of otoplasty?
If your auricle doesn’t develop properly, you may choose to have otoplasty to correct the size, positioning, or shape of your ears. There are several different types of otoplasty:
Ear augmentation: Those with small or underdeveloped ears may choose an otoplasty to increase the size of their outer ears.
Ear pinning: Performed on those with ears sticking out, this surgery draws the ears closer to the head.
Ear reduction: When the ears are larger than normal it’s called “Macrotia”, some choose otoplasty to reduce the size of their ears.
What does the otoplasty procedure involve?
Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure that based on the specifics and complexity takes between 1-3 hours. Patients will be given local anesthesia for the procedure, although for some (younger children) general anesthesia may be used. Generally, otoplasty involves:
Making an incision: Either on the back of your ear or inside the folds of your ear
Manipulating the tissue of the ear: Removal of cartilage or skin, folding, and shaping of cartilage with permanent stitches, or grafting of cartilage to the ear
Closing the incisions: Stitches
What are the risks of otoplasty surgery?
Just like any major surgery, otoplasty surgery also carries the risk of bleeding, infection, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. Other risks associated with otoplasty include:
Scarring: Your surgeon will hide the scars behind your ears or within the creases of the ears.
Asymmetry in-ear placement: This could occur as a result of changes during the healing process or the surgery may not successfully correct preexisting asymmetry.
Changes in skin sensation: The repositioning of your ears can temporarily affect skin sensation in the area.
Allergic reaction: Patients may have an allergic reaction to the surgical tape.
Problems with stitches: In case the stitches work their way to the surface of the skin, needing to be removed. This may cause inflammation of the affected skin, needing additional surgery.
Overcorrection: Otoplasty can create unnatural contours that make ears appear to be pinned back.
What does recovery from otoplasty look like?
The recovery process depends on the type of surgery. Your surgeon will apply a dressing over the ears which will remain for several days. After your doctor removes the dressing and checks for hematoma, patients may need to wear a protective headband over the ears. It will prevent the ears from being pulled forward during sleep, especially at night. Patients may notice soreness for a few days, numbness and tingling for several weeks, and slight bruising for around 2 weeks. Afterward, patients should be able to:
Wash their hair 14 days after surgery
Swim after 4–6 weeks
Return to work after 1–2 weeks
Play sports after 12 weeks
Conclusion
In conclusion, otoplasty, also known as ear correction surgery or cosmetic ear surgery, is a procedure that changes the shape, position, or size of the ears. It is typically considered for individuals who are bothered by how far their ears stick out from their head. This procedure is also considered for those whose ears are misshapen due to an injury or birth defect. Otoplasty is usually performed on children and young teenagers, although adults can also have it done. However, it is not suitable for children younger than 5 because their ears are still growing and developing. In some cases, ear splints can be used in babies under the age of 6 months to correct the shape of the ears and avoid surgery later on. As with any surgical procedure, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to understand the potential risks and benefits.
Read more:
