About Otoplasty
Also known as ear shaping or ear pinning, otoplasty refers to the alteration of the size or shape of the ears. Patients seek otoplasty largely for aesthetic concerns. This includes ears that are protruding too far outward from the head.
Another common concern is the proportion of the ears in comparison to the rest of the head, including ears that are too large or too small.
Some patients struggle with “lop ear,” when the top of the ear folds downward or inward. Other patients have what is called a “shell ear,” in which there is no outer curve in the cartilage of their ear.
All of these are issues that can be addressed by an otoplasty here at the AJ Plastic Surgery Centre.
Patients may also seek otoplasty after one ear has been affected by a medical condition or injury. It could be that cancer or another issue has led to the partial removal of one ear, leaving the ears asymmetrical.
This is also true of ears that have been affected by trauma or a physical injury. In these cases, otoplasty can restore a more normal appearance to the ears.
While otoplasty procedures are most often performed on pediatric patients, it is not too late to seek this treatment in adulthood. Adult patients who are unhappy with the way their ears look can have an otoplasty performed at any age.
- Before Procedure
- During Procedure
- Results & Recovery
What You Should Know Before Your Otoplasty
Before you can schedule an otoplasty procedure at AJ Plastic Surgery Centre, we will do a detailed consultation, take a complete medical history and conduct a careful examination and develop a customized plan based on your anatomy as well as your aesthetic goals. We consider age, overall health, emotional well-being, as well as expectations for surgery when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.
As we’ve mentioned before, plastic surgery is not an exact science. Every person has a unique anatomy and their own idea of what their body goals should be. This is why consultations are vital so we can work together to create the best possible plan, customized for your personal needs and goals.
Being upfront and honest with our patients is our top priority. If we feel that you are not a good candidate for an otoplasty, we will advise you on any alternative options. If we find that you are a good candidate, we can begin creating your unique treatment plan.
Prior to your surgical date, you will need to obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician. This may include diagnostic testing, blood panels, and a complete physical examination. Medical clearance ensures that you are healthy enough to go under anesthesia for surgery.
What Happens During an Otoplasty
Before your procedure begins, we will once again discuss your desired outcome in the pre-operative area. We will mark your ears to show you exactly where your incisions will be. After this, we will begin the surgical process.
What Kind of Anesthesia Is Used?
An otoplasty at the AJ Plastic Surgery Centre is performed under general anesthesia to provide optimal comfort. We may also use a numbing solution on the ears and surrounding skin to minimize any discomfort upon waking from surgery.
Some patients who need very minor alterations to the ear may be able to have their procedure performed with just local anesthesia. This is a much simpler procedure that is significantly shorter in duration and does not require an extensive medical clearance beforehand.
The Surgical Procedure
During your otoplasty procedure, we will use 3.5X microscopic examination to get the most precise visual of your ear structure. This helps to create the most natural-looking result that flatters your appearance.
To begin your otoplasty procedure, we will make discrete incisions either on the back of the ear or within the inner crease of the ear. The placement of your incisions will depend on the alterations that are being made to the ear.
If the ears are being pinned back closer to the ear, incisions may be on the back of the ear. If cartilage is being removed to reduce the size of the ear, incisions may be on the inner crease.
Another issue that patients may have is stretched or torn earlobes, either from injury or wearing heavy earrings. If this is the reason for otoplasty, we will remove stretched or excess earlobe tissue and create a smaller, more appealing lobe.
How Long Does an Otoplasty Procedure Last?
An otoplasty at AJ Plastic Surgery Centre can last anywhere from two to three hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. Some patients need more extensive alterations to the ear, which requires a longer surgical process.
Otoplasty Recovery and Results: What to Expect
Otoplasty at AJ Plastic Surgery Centre is an outpatient procedure, which means that you will be able to return home the same day your surgery is performed. You will have to remain in our surgical aftercare center upon awakening. Once you are fully awake, you will be discharged to return home.
How Long Does Otoplasty Recovery Last?
After your otoplasty procedure, there will be bandages around your ears to provide protection and support. These will remain for about one week after your surgery before being removed. Your stitches will be removed about one week after surgery.
You will have minor swelling and redness around the ears, which will gradually subside in the first two to three weeks.
It is important to avoid any trauma to the ear in the first few weeks of your recovery. Avoid strenuous activity and exercise. Try to sleep on your back instead of on your side, so that no excess pressure is applied to either ear.
You may need to wear a loose headband that covers your ears after the bandages are removed.
Once the swelling and redness has subsided, you will be able to see the results of your otoplasty. These results are permanent and will not change over time, unless there is trauma to the newly constructed ear.
Does an Otoplasty Leave Scars?
We have developed a detailed and meticulous technique that results in nearly invisible scarring for otoplasty here at the AJ Plastic Surgery Centre. Since we make your incisions in discrete creases of the ear, you can hide them very easily after you’ve healed from your surgery.
We also incorporate a comprehensive scar treatment plan into the recovery process. About two weeks after your procedure, you will begin scar treatment that involves specialized medications and products.
These products work together to fade any scarring so your incisions will be nearly invisible. This is important for many patients who worry that others will know they had surgery.