About Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a cosmetic ear surgery aimed at changing the shape, position, or size of the ears. Often, a patient seeking otoplasty for themselves or their children have been bothered by the shape and protrusion (sticking out) of their ears for much of their lives. Otoplasty can be performed after ears have reached maturity/full size, usually after age 5 and all the way through to adulthood. Otoplasty can also be done to one ear, in an effort to gain symmetry to the more desirably shaped ear.
How are 0toplasties performed?
Otoplasties typically require anesthesia for patient comfort. A small incision is made behind the ear, and from this incision, the cartilage and soft tissue of the ear are shaped through non-removable stitches and cartilage excisions. Techniques for otoplasty widely vary based on the individual ear, so a plan will be made with your surgery during your consultation.
Recovery from ear pinning
Recovery from Otoplasty typically takes 1-2 weeks. After surgery, a soft bandage is applied to the ears that will be in place for 2-5 days. After removal, incisions can be cleaned and healing gradually occurs over a 2-4 week period. We ask that patients wear a headband temporarily during the healing process to keep their ears pinned in the desired position.