Otoplasty: Otoplasty is a procedure where the external appearance of the ears are changed. The most likely reason for this operation is the protruding ear which is usually present since birth. Surgery consists of sculpting the ear with sutures and reducing the protruding portion of cartilage which gives the ear its prominent appearance. In children this surgery can be performed as early as age 5-6 when the ear has already reached 80-90% of adult size.
Recovery:
Following an otoplasty, patients usually have a head dressing in place for 2-4 days which is removed by the physician. After removal of the dressing, there is an immediate improvement in the patient’s appearance. All incisions are placed behind the ear and are not visible. Patients are then asked to wear a head band (e.g. tennis sweat band) at night for 2-4 weeks to prevent any trauma while sleeping. The ears will be slightly swollen for the first week or two but will then appear normal.
Intended
Results:
Otoplasty will give immediate improvement to the prominent features of the ear. It is intended to give the ear a natural appearance and prevent it from being a noticeable facial landmark.