Otoplasty: Correcting Abnormal Ear Shape, Size or Placement

Your ears are wonderful tools. They help you hear birds singing, music playing and loved ones calling your name. When something dangerous sneaks up behind you, your ears let you know.

However, for some, they can be a source of embarrassment. If you’re uncomfortable with the appearance of your ears, ear surgery – also known as otoplasty – may help.

“Research has found that when you’re uncomfortable in your own ears, you face unique psychological and social issues,” says Dr. Heidi Harrington, a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with Beaufort Memorial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. “By changing the shape, size or position of your ears, you can enjoy an improved quality of life.”

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Why You May Consider Otoplasty

During the early months and years of life, nonsurgical ear molding can correct some ear irregularities. Those that remain after age five may require otoplasty. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there are several reasons you may consider this cosmetic surgery for you or a loved one.

These include:

• Congenital abnormality affecting the ear’s structure
• Macrotia (overly large ears)
• Misshapen ears
• One or two ears that protrude from the head and are not linked to hearing loss
• Previous ear surgery did not provide the desired results

“Misshapen or protruding ears may seem like minor issues, but they can present serious mental health challenges,” Dr. Harrington says. “Kids can get bullied for these issues and may become self-conscious adults. Correcting the problem can minimize these issues at any age.”

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What Happens During Ear Surgery

Otoplasty is a reconstructive surgery that aims to reshape, reposition or change the proportions of the ear. Each procedure is customized to your specific needs. That said, the procedure includes the following steps:

• Anesthesia — You receive medication that helps you relax and not feel pain. Adults often remain awake throughout surgery. Children, on the other hand, typically receive general anesthesia. This helps them stay asleep and comfortable until surgery is finished.
• Surgery — Your plastic surgeon performs the procedure. Depending on your needs, you may benefit from ear pinning (pulling protruding ears closer to the head), ear reduction (reducing the size of the ears) or ear augmentation (modifying the size of the ears). With any procedure, the surgeon makes incisions where scars are less visible. Common sites include the back of the ear and within the folds of the front of the ear.
• Discharge — Once you’re stable after your procedure, you return home. Otoplasty is often performed as an outpatient surgery, allowing you to return home on the same day as your operation.

What to Expect After Your Surgery

Ear surgery often gives instant results. However, you’ll need to wait to show off your ears. Generally speaking, otoplasty recovery includes the following:

• Bandaging your ears for two to four days after surgery
• Keeping a headband or wrap on for two or three weeks
• Protecting your ears from sunlight, trauma and other injury during recovery
• Telling your plastic surgeon of extreme ear pain, which can be the result of ear cartilage infections

Once you’re fully recovered, you can return to life with a newfound pep in your step.

“After otoplasty, our patients are more confident and content with their appearance,” Dr. Harrington says. “It’s very gratifying to hear our patient success stories. Many put aside self-conscious feelings and go out in public without fear for the first time in their lives.”

Read More: Pre-Surgery Checklist: Preparing for Your Procedure

Otoplasty for Renewed Self-Confidence

Ear surgery can correct a variety of ear problems in children, teens and adults that can be present at birth or result from injury.

1. Common reasons to undergo otoplasty include overly large or protruding ears that cause you to feel self-conscious about your appearance.
2. Plastic surgeons often perform ear surgery in outpatient settings and always work to minimize the visibility of scars. Your procedure is tailored to your specific needs.
3. Recovery from otoplasty takes a couple of weeks, and the physical and psychological results often last a lifetime.

Want to find out how we can help you regain confidence with otoplasty? Call 843-707-8020 or request a plastic surgery consultation online.