Otoplasty (ear pinning) is the medical term for cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery involving the ears. The most common otoplasty procedure is pinning the ears. Since the facial region is prominent, it can be quite obvious when someone’s ears are protruding. This can be especially difficult for young children since nicknames such as “Dumbo” or “Mickey Mouse” can haunt them and create an unbearable school life. This can also lead to self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Surgery can be performed after the ears have completed development which usually is around age 6.
No matter what age, surgery can be a scary situation. It is important to understand what actually occurs during the procedure which can lessen the stress of the unknown. The surgeon makes an incision behind the ear in the natural fold where the ear is joined by the head. Cartilage and skin is then removed in order to change the ear’s appearance. Sometimes the cosmetic surgeon will trim the cartilage into a more desirable form and then suture the cartilage so that it is secured. In other instances, the surgeon will not even remove any cartilage. Instead, he or she will sculpt the cartilage and then use sutures to permanently hold it in place. Once the healing process is complete, the sutures are removed, revealing the newly positioned ears.
Pain following the surgery is mild. Dressings stay on the ears for a few days. Some patients are advised to wear a headband during the recovery period in order to keep the ears in the correct position. People who sleep on their sides will have to avoid doing so since there cannot be pressure on the ears during the healing process. Children usually can return to school after a week post-op. Adults can return to work also after a week of recovery. Activities, such as sports that might hurt the ears should be avoided for at least a month.
Just like any other surgery, there is a slim chance of risks occurring. Infection of the sutures can occur. There is also the chance of the ears relaxing after a month or so following the surgery. It is important to discuss the risks and concerns with the surgeon prior to the otoplasty.
Otoplasty can greatly improve a person’s life. They may gain confidence and boost their self-esteem once they are happy with how their ears are positioned. For children, they can begin their new life of not being teased on their appearance. Doing research on otoplasty is the first step to determining if it is a suitable option. If it is, finding a suitable surgeon who will be of assistance can pave the path to changing you or your child’s life for the better.
To learn more about
breast augmentation and breast lift surgery or
facelift and rhinoplasty, it is important to schedule a consultation at a
Connecticut plastic surgery center.
