Otoplasty, otherwise known as ear pinning surgery, reshapes the ear cartilage for those patients who have protruding ears. The ear cartilage sometimes get too big and sticks out too far, which then draws too much attention. Some women tend to grow their hair long to help cover and hide the ears until they’re ready for otoplasty. The ears generally should not draw attention away from the eyes.
Otoplasty is considered in children only after around age 6, once the ears are more adult size. While we don’t see children in our facial plastic surgery practice, I see adults who have always wanted otoplasty and now moving forward to have the procedure for a variety of reasons.
Based on the patients preference, otoplasty in adults can be performed in the office via local anesthesia or in a hospital via IV sedation (twilight anesthesia). Most of the time plastic surgery is performed on both ears, but some patients only require ear reshaping on one side. An incision is made behind the ear and the cartilage is reshaped. A headband is worn for several days to help protect the new ear shape. Result are permanent, but occasionally the ears may relax and stick out again, which may need a minor revision.
Otoplasty patients are some of the happiest patients in a plastic surgeons office. Speak with your plastic surgeon if otoplasty is right for you or your child.
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