Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects irregularities and asymmetry of the ears. The goal of otoplasty is to create a more natural and balanced appearance of not only the ears but of the entire head and facial profile. Otoplasty can effectively correct excessively large ears, protruding ears, or ears damaged from injury. Some people feel self-conscious about their appearance when they have protruding or large ears. Click to see the other facial surgeries we offer!
Who is a Good Candidate?
If you are in overall good health but are unhappy with the shape or profile of your ears, then you are likely a great candidate for otoplasty. After an initial evaluation and discussion of your desires and expectations, Dr. Silver will help you determine the best approach to achieve your desired results.
The Otoplasty Procedure
After a thorough discussion of your options, desired outcome and expectations, you and Dr. Silver will determine the best way to undergo your ear correction surgery. Several steps are involved in the planning portion of this procedure including pictures, physical exam and occasionally blood work.
Otoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, although in some cases, IV sedation may be considered. The procedure is carried out in a surgical center or hospital in order to provide optimal safety and comfort.
When performed by an expert surgeon like Dr. Silver, incisions are small and typically hidden in the skin folds behind the ear. Depending on what correction is needed there may be options for where the incisions can be placed and these can be discussed with Dr. Silver during the planning stage for the procedure. Once the incisions have been made, Dr. Silver can then sculpt the cartilage of the ear and/or remove excess skin and cartilage if necessary. The skin is then reattached in a way that creates an attractive and more balanced profile of the ears and overall facial image.
The Results and Recovery
Otoplasty results are noticeable once the bandages are removed and swelling from the procedure has gone down. Swelling can be expected for a week or so but can be reduced by keeping the head elevated which may mean sleeping in a recliner or significantly propped up with pillows in bed. Rest and avoidance of strenuous activity will be recommended for a few weeks, be sure to follow Dr. Silver’s recommendations carefully. Pain from the procedure should resolve after a few days but soreness can persist for a few weeks. Do not resume exercise or other physical activities until instructed by Dr. Silver.
Regular follow ups will be scheduled to monitor healing. For optimal results, be sure to follow Dr. Silver’s post-op instructions and keep all follow-up visits.
Overall benefits from otoplasty include:
- Balanced and harmonious facial profile
- Ears more proportionate to the rest of your face
- Correction of damaged tissue from injury
- Improved self-confidence
When properly and carefully performed, otoplasty can provide permanent and aesthetically pleasing results. Individuals who undergo otoplasty often enjoy an immediate sense of self-confidence having shed the insecurity they may have had from irregular or disproportionate ears. Hearing is not typically affected one way or the other by otoplasty, so any change in hearing should be brought to Dr. Silver’s attention immediately.
If you are interested in learning if otoplasty is an option for you, contact our offices today for a detailed evaluation and discussion of your options.