Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears.
Who is an Ear Surgery Candidate?
Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.
Besides protruding ears, there are a variety of other ear problems that can be helped with surgery. These include: "lop ear," when the tip seems to fold down and forward; "cupped ear," which is usually a very small ear; and "shell ear," when the curve in the outer rim, as well as the natural folds and creases, are missing. Surgery can also improve large or stretched earlobes, or lobes with large creases and wrinkles.
How is Ear Surgery Performed?
Ear surgery usually takes about two to three hours, although complicated procedures may take longer.
With one of the more common techniques, a small incision is made in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage will be sculpted and bent back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, larger piece of cartilage will be removed to provide a more natural-looking fold when the surgery is complete.
Another technique involves a similar incision in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear without removing cartilage.
In most cases, ear surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance.
What Results Can I Expect?
Most patients, young and old alike, are thrilled with the results of ear surgery. But keep in mind, the goal is improvement, not perfection. Don't expect both ears to match perfectly—perfect symmetry is both unlikely and unnatural in ears. If you've openly discussed your expectations with us before the operation, chances are, you'll be quite pleased with the result.