Ear Pinning
Most people who are bothered by their ears think they are too large. In reality, the problem isn’t the size, but the shape and the manner in which they protrude away from the head. This undesirable appearance can be corrected through a procedure called Otoplasty (pronounced auto – plasty).
- Best Candidates for Ear Reshaping Surgery
- What to Expect at Your Consultation
- How Ear Reshaping Surgery is Performed
- Recovery from Surgery
Best Candidates for Ear Reshaping Surgery
- Children, after the age of 5 or 6 years
- Adult men and women of any age
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Dr. James Matas, our board-certified plastic surgeon in Orlando, Florida, has extensive experience performing a broad range of facial plastic surgery procedures. During your consultation with Dr. Matas, he will first listen to your concerns and goals for cosmetic ear surgery. This is followed by an examination of your ears, a review of your physical health, and an assessment of your emotional fitness for surgery. He will also take the time to evaluate your medical history, which should cover a discussion of any previous surgeries, any medical conditions (both past and current), any nutritional and herbal herbal supplements you are taking, and all of the over-the-counter and prescription medications you take.
Dr. Matas will educate you about every aspect of the procedure so that you are fully informed about what to expect during otoplasty. The technique and placement of the incisions are also discussed, along with the type of anesthesia you will need and where the procedure will take place. As with all surgical procedures, there are risks and the potential for complications—Dr. Matas will review these with you and provide you with pre- and post-surgical guidelines aimed at enhancing your safety and the quality of your outcome.
Once your customized surgical plan is established, you can expect to receive a cost estimate for your proposed ear reshaping surgery.
How Ear Reshaping Surgery is Performed
An incision is made along the crease behind the ear. Through this incision, the cartilage is reshaped and often, excess cartilage is removed. Permanent sutures are used to anchor and hold the ears in their new position. The outside incision is closed with dissolvable sutures. The ears are then covered with a dressing that will remain for a few days. The surgery takes approximately one hour and is performed outpatient under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.
Recovery from Surgery
You will be discharged wearing a bandage or headband over your ears. This is worn during for the first week for additional reinforcement, and then used during sleep for two to three more weeks.
Although there is very little discomfort with this procedure, any mild discomfort can be easily controlled with prescribed pain medication. You can continue with normal activities after several days, but should avoid activities that cause perspiring. For school age children, vigorous physical activities and contact sports can be resumed in a few weeks.
Since the incisions are hidden behind your ear and covered with hair, they will not be visible.
Your New Look
Friends, family and co-workers won’t know you’ve had plastic surgery unless you tell them. They may notice a change in your appearance, but are likely to think you’ve changed your hairstyle. You’ll notice the change, however, and will feel more self-confident than you ever thought possible. And the next time you are asked to pose for a photograph, you’ll smile happily!