Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)
Description
The Surgical Procedure
What to Expect After Surgery
Resuming Physical Activities
Before/After Ear Pinning (Otoplasty) Photos
Description of Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)
Ear surgery (or otoplasty) is usually performed to set prominent ears closer to the head to make them appear smaller. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of 4 and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age 4, therefore the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also common and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient. The exact cost of the procedure depends on the anesthetic used, but a general range would be $3500-5000.
There are several deformities of the ears, each of which must be treated in a different manner. Basically, otoplasty is performed to correct excess protrusion of the ears to place them in a more normal, less conspicuous position.
It should be noted that both ears are never exactly alike, even in the normal state, and that perfect symmetry is therefore not a reasonable expectation.
The operation has no adverse effects upon the hearing.
Photographs are as important to the plastic surgeon in the proper care of his patients as X-rays are to physicians in other medical specialties. Therefore, photos will be taken before and after surgery. These photographs become a part of the patient’s confidential medical record.
The surgery can be performed under either local anesthesia with intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. Patients usually go home from the hospital the same day as the surgery.
Physical activities should be limited for 2 weeks to avoid increased swelling and discomfort. Driving may be resumed in 3 days.
The Surgical Procedure
The operation takes approximately 3 hours and is not painful. The procedure consists of an incision on the backside of the ear, with the removal of a small segment of skin. The cartilage is exposed and thinned or cut so that the ear will be placed in a normal position and have a normal configuration. Stitches are used to hold the cartilage in place and to close the incision. A bulky dressing is applied completely around the head to protect both ears to minimize swelling and limit discomfort.
What to Expect After Surgery
Post-operative discomfort is minimal. Whatever discomfort there may be is short-lived and easily handled with routine pain medication. Dressings will stay in place for 1 to 2 weeks. The doctor will change them periodically. The bandana or bandage is worn over the head and ears at night for an additional 2 weeks to avoid injuring the ears while sleeping.
When the bandages are removed, the ears will appear swollen and bluish in color. This is normal and will be evident for approximately 4 weeks. Slight swelling will be noticeable for a few weeks. The bulky bandage does impair hearing.
Resuming Physical Activities
- Non-contact sports (swimming, dancing, jogging) - 2 weeks
- Contact sports - 6 weeks
- Driving - when the dressing is no longer needed
Before/After Ear Pinning (Otoplasty) Photos
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