Re-shaping

Overview:

Ear reshaping may be an option for you if protruding or unshapely ears bother you. Ear surgery (otoplasty) can improve their shape, projection, position or proportion. It can correct defects in ear structure that are present at birth, become apparent with growth or are caused by injury. (e.g. cauliflower ears)

The majority of aesthetic ear concerns can be improved with surgery. These include: “lop ear,” when the top seems to fold down and forward; “cupped ear,” usually a very small ear; and “shell ear,” when the curve in the outer rim and the natural folds and creases are missing. Surgery can also improve large or stretched earlobes, or lobes with large creases and wrinkles. Split earlobes can be easily repaired.

Most surgery is done as an outpatient. The procedure may take 1 – 2 hours per side ,depending on the complexity of the problem at hand. It usually takes about two hours, often done under local anaesthetic, although complicated procedures may take longer. Children up to about 12 years generally need a general anaesthetic.

Since schoolyard teasing and ridicule can negatively impact a child’s self-esteem, many parents seek otoplasty for their children at an early age. Of course, ear surgery can be performed to reshape adult ears as well, to increase self-esteem and improve appearance. Well-hidden incisions are placed behind the ear, which limits visible scarring. This allows our surgeons to gain access to the cartilage of the ears for contouring. Otoplasty brings the ears in balance with the head and face.

Candidates:

Our plastic surgery office works with children as young as age 5 so that their ears can be reshaped prior to the start of elementary school. However, ear surgery can be performed on individuals of any age. Good candidates are men or women who demonstrate:

•  Self-confidence issues because of the size or shape of their ears
•  Protruding ears that stick out
•  Large or oversized ears
•  Under developed ear cartilage
•  Torn earlobes due to heavy jewelry or ear trauma
•  Unusual folds or prominences in the ear cartilages

What to expect:

Otoplasty begins with an incision behind the ear so that the cartilage can be exposed. This cartilage is then removed and/or reshaped until the ear takes on a normal appearance. Excess skin is removed and if the ear shows protrusion, our surgeon will reposition it closer to the head and firmly secure it with non-dissolving sutures. There are many variables that are used to help redefine the ears.

The goal of this surgery is to produce a natural looking result that will be long lasting for the patient & the details of the surgery vary with the problem to be addressed. Often. A unique operation will be tailored to the exact needs of the patient. Your surgeon will be happy to discuss his r her specific plans with you during your consultation.