Cosmetic Procedures

Otoplasty

Otoplasty is unique in that it is one of the only plastic surgery procedures more commonly performed on children than adults. When ears protrude from the head instead of tapering back, it can cause children to feel self-conscious. Otoplasty is often the most effective way to bring the ears back into proportion with the rest of the body.

Who Needs It

While certainly not restricted to children, the average patient age for otoplasty is between four and fourteen. Otoplasty must be a family decision and parents should not pressure their children to have the procedure if the child is not interested. Optimally parents are in tune with their child’s interest in the procedure and support them whatever their decision.

Preparation

During the physician consultation, you and your doctor will discuss your options regarding anesthesia and technique. Otoplasty is generally a very safe, relatively simple surgery for a plastic surgeon to perform.

The Surgery

Local anesthesia is usually combined with a sedative to make the patient drowsy and insensitive to pain during the operation. This procedure involves an incision behind the ear. The ear is sculpted, necessary skin and cartilage are removed, and the skin is sutured back together. The scar left from the incision tends to be small and unnoticeable.

Results

Patients are usually quite pleased with the results of an otoplasty and like what they see when they look in the mirror. Since results are permanent, protruding ears will never be an issue after an otoplasty.