One of the plastic surgery procedures that is regularly performed on children, otoplasty or ear pinning is also popular with adults. Whatever your age, the good news is this relatively easy and proven procedure can effectively and permanently correct ear positioning.
Our ears rarely attract attention when they are normal in relation to our other facial features, however large ears, ears that stick out, or misshapen ears can detract from an otherwise normal appearance. Children with prominent ears often suffer with teasing from classmates or peers, which can impact self confidence and their social life.
If protruding ears are bothering you or your child, consider ear pinning surgery, also known as otoplasty. While most often used to correct the ears’ position (pulling them closer to the head), the procedure can also be used to improve the shape or reduce the size of the ears. Ear pinning surgery can be performed on children as young as age four or five if their ears have developed enough; there is no upper age limit for the procedure as long as the patient is healthy.
Otoplasty can correct defects in ear shape that have been present since birth or developed over time; we can also help if your ears became misshapen due to an injury. In general, the goal of otoplasty surgery is to create a natural ear shape, bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face.
Ear surgery typically takes one to two hours, depending on the corrections you desire. Anesthesia will depend on the age of the patient and specifics of your ear surgery, but you can rest assured knowing our anesthesia is administered by highly qualified, board certified MD anesthesiologists. We will go over all the details with you during your consultation, as well as provide personalized written instructions for your surgery and recovery.
Recovery from ear surgery is relatively easy and pain free with mild pain medications. All sutures dissolve by themselves and do not have to be removed. Patients can usually shower 3–4 days after the procedure and resume all normal activities within 7–10 days. Exercise can be started at 2 weeks.
Our board certified plastic surgeons are well qualified and experienced in ear plastic surgery for patients of all ages; we encourage you to come in for a free consultation at our plastic surgery center to learn more.
