Otoplasty: Everything You Should Know About Ear Pinning Surgery

Otoplasty, which is also occasionally referred to as “pinnaplasty,” is a surgical procedure that aims to reshape the ears.

If a patient wishes to alter his ear’s shape or size, then he may be a suitable candidate for this form of corrective cosmetic surgery. This surgery is common in individuals who are unsatisfied with the locations of their ears.

It’s also common in individuals who would like to push down ears that jut out noticeably. People who feel self-conscious about the appearances of their ears frequently opt for otoplasty. If an individual has flap-ears that are particularly noticeable to others, then he may attempt to get them corrected with otoplasty.

The Otoplasty Process

Otoplasty generally is a straightforward and safe surgical procedure. It, for the most part, doesn’t call for incisions. The reconstruction process occurs without the need for skin cutting.

The goal of otoplasty is to repair cartilaginous fold problems that are developing inside of the ears. These problems are triggered by auricle defects.

Otopolasty typically takes an hour or so. Patients are given local or general anesthesia during these procedures. Cosmetic surgeons typically determine which anesthesia to use based on the ages and individual requirements of their patients.

The otoplasty recovery process generally takes anywhere between one and two weeks. Doctors typically instruct their patients to take it easy during that time frame, particularly in the evenings. Patients must exercise caution as a means of protecting their ears from the hazards of sudden impact.

Potential Otoplasty Risks

While otoplasty is a relatively basic surgery, it can occasionally lead to problems in people. Some people who have otoplasty experience effects including skin necrosis and bleeding, for example.

These effects generally arise due to surgical complications. Haematoma, otherwise known as internal bleeding, is yet another possibility in people who receive otoplasty. Some people who get the procedure develop internal bruises located just below the surfaces of their skin.

Doctors can usually easily remedy the internal bleeding by simply getting rid of stitches that were placed on the skin, however.

Although infections due to otoplasty are far from common, they can sometimes emerge, as well. If a patient gets an infection from otoplasty, his doctor will likely provide him with antibiotics to treat it. Patients with infections from otoplasty are generally required to take their antiobiotics for about one week or so.

If you feel that you may be a suitable candidate for this procedure, call us at Robert M. Schwarcz, MD’s New York City area clinic to make an appointment or set up a consultation.