Otoplasty
Children can be the victim of ridicule when it comes to protruding ears, such names as “dumbo” amongst others can be hurtful. A child would be considered a candidate for ear pinning surgery around the age of 5, when the ears have reached full size.
Adults often opt for the procedure in combination with other procedures. Ear pinning surgery can make a dramatic difference in the adult as well.
Surgery consists of making an incision in the back of the ear in the natural fold, removing the necessary amount of skin and cartilage to allow for proper shaping of the ear, followed by placing some anchoring sutures that will pin the cartilage securing it to the head just behind the ear. Depending on the type of ear protrusion that exists, occasionally only permanent sutures without cartilage removal may be performed.
Immediately after surgery dressings are placed for a few days, then headbands for two weeks in the afternoons to continue light pressure during the healing process. The ears will be sore for a week especially if sleeping is attempted on the side. The thin scar is very well hidden in the crease behind the ear. For children the surgery should be performed under general anesthesia and for adults, light sedation is combined with a local anesthetic.
Before & After Photos
Before
After
