Otoplasty isn’t a frequently performed surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported fewer than 5,000 procedures in 2023.
A plastic surgery to fix structural problems with the ear, otoplasty is most commonly performed on children after they reach the age of about 4, but there’s no reason why adults can’t opt for the procedure when needed.
At Lawrence Otolaryngology Associates, our extended services include cosmetic and reconstructive facial plastic surgery. If your ears protrude or if they’re too small or too large, talk to us about otoplasty.
Let’s take a closer look at this procedure, including what you can change about the shape of your ears as well as what to expect from the process.
You might pursue a surgical solution for your ears for a variety of cosmetic reasons. An injury could damage the outer portion of the ear, called the auricle or the pinna, or it may be an abnormal shape from incomplete development.
The auricle can also grow out of proportion with the rest of your face, and surgery is the answer when you’re bothered by how much your ears stick out.
While the purpose of the auricle is to gather and direct sound into the ear canal, otoplasty to change the shape of your ears won’t appreciably alter your hearing.
Otoplasty is generally considered minimally invasive and simple as a procedure, and carries few risks beyond those common to any surgical procedure.
Otoplasty for infants focuses on reshaping or molding the ears using splints or other methods to address congenital deformities. Infants should be seen within the first month of life when the cartilage is softer so that surgery is not needed later in life. Otoplasty is generally reserved for older children over the age of 5 when the cartilage is stronger.
You and your surgeon discuss your goals for ear surgery for planning purposes. We also go over preoperative preparations. These can include avoiding certain medications that might interfere with your procedure, and details like arranging transportation to and from your appointment.
You may have the surgery itself under general anesthetic or a local anesthetic plus sedation. Among a variety of surgical approaches, we choose one that matches the type of otoplasty you require, as well as fine-tuning to match the specifics of the changes needed to your auricles.
Typically, your surgery includes several steps to reshape the auricle. These can feature:
Generally, otoplasty takes about three hours or less, depending on the specific work needed. It’s typically an outpatient procedure, so you return home the same day.
After your otoplasty, your ears are covered with a dressing, which you need to keep clean and dry as directed. Avoid touching or disturbing your ears in the early stages of recovery. Choose button-up shirts to reduce the risk of pullover clothes catching on your ears.
We provide you with aftercare guidelines specifically for your case. Be sure to understand and follow these instructions. You notice results when your dressings are removed, and these will continue to refine as swelling subsides.
Full recovery can take up to eight weeks, though you’ll be close to your final appearance in about half that time. It takes about a week to return to school or work, though you should limit physical activity and exertion until we give you the all-clear.
Contact Lawrence Otolaryngology Associates in Lawrence or Ottawa to request a consultation by phone or online today.
