Otoplasty, also referred to as ear pinning surgery, is a cosmetic surgery that fits the needs of one whose ears appear to be disproportionate, whether it is the size or the level of one ear versus the other, large ears due to macrotia, protruding ears, or misshapen features of the ears. Ear deformities can occur at birth, due to injuries, or from a previous ear surgery. Specifically, it changes the external part of the ear (the pinna).
Otoplasty is best for patients who feel that their ears detract from their overall appearance. Anyone who is dissatisfied with the appearance of their ears is a qualifying candidate for otoplasty surgery. This can be due to an injury or birth defect, or simply because their ears are too large or protruding for their facial structure.
Patients more commonly seek to set the ears closer to the skull or reduce their size. For instance, patients with very protruding ears may choose to set their ears closer to their heads, while people with a deformity may opt to have the entire ear reshaped. More complicated reconstructive surgeries are less common, but can create an almost perfectly normal-looking ear. The results of a good otoplasty can be expected to last a lifetime and revisions are rarely needed.
Patients who are healthy and without issues such as hearing loss or acute/chronic ear infections may qualify as a candidate for an Otoplasty procedure. Otoplasty corrective surgery can be suitable for children and adults. Children should be above the age of 5 or at a point where the strength of the cartilage can handle a surgery. Patients should have an identifiable plan in mind along with a positive future outlook.
Otoplasty improves the balance of the facial features that exist between the ears and face and may help to improve the self-esteem of those who have been negatively affected by the appearance of their ears. Otoplasty can improve the shape, size or proportion of the ears and dramatically improve the overall appearance in regards to the relation that exists between the facial features and the ears.
Recovery time from otoplasty surgery varies depending on the extent of the surgery, but is usually uneventful. The surgical incisions are generally tiny, hidden from view, and heal easily. There are risks with any surgery, and patients should be vigilant for signs of infection or blood clots. Patients are usually sent home from the hospital after a day, and regular daily activities can usually be resumed in a few days, but the ears should be left undisturbed for over a month while they heal.
Ear pinning has a high degree of success, but it’s normal to have concerns about any surgery. If you are considering an otoplasty, contact a cosmetic surgeon to see how you can benefit from this procedure.
