Ear Pinning or Otoplasty Surgery
Would I Benefit From Ear Pinning?
Simply stated, if you look into the mirror and don't like the way your ears look, you may be a good candidate for Dr. Kaplan's otoplasty surgery. Reasons for considering otoplasty:
- My ears stick out too far
- I look like a car with its doors open
- Kids call my child "dumbo“ his ears look like he'll fly away
What is Otoplasty?
Ear pinning, also called Otoplasty, is surgery designed to make ears appear more symmetrical by reshaping them or reducing them in size so that they are more aesthetically pleasing and in better harmony with other facial features. By eliminating a major detractor from your appearance, otoplasty improves your appearance and as a result, often your self confidence. This is true for adults and children alike and especially for children who are teased. Dr. Kaplan has performed hundreds of these surgeries with outstanding results. Some patients choose to combine otoplasty surgery with another facial procedure to enhance the result.
What Dr. Kaplan's Otoplasty Surgery Accomplishes:
- Ears that have normal folds and shape
- Ears with abnormal protrusion from the side of the head
- Reshaping and repositioning to achieve balance and harmony with other facial features
Anesthesia
Dr. Kaplan generally performs otoplasty surgery using MAC (monitored anesthesia care) although some adult patients prefer IV Sedation for anesthesia. All surgery is performed on an outpatient basis in our state-of-the-art AAAHC-certified operating suite, complete with all of the required monitoring, delivery and emergency equipment. Dr. Kaplan makes every effort to ensure your complete safety and comfort during surgery. If you are having MAC, it will be administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist who is present throughout the entire operation as (s)he administers and monitors the anesthesia. Anesthesia will be discussed during your pre-operative appointment.
The Procedure
After you are made totally comfortable, Dr. Kaplan will proceed with the otoplasty procedure as follows, based upon your needs:
- Otoplasty is performed through an incision on the back side of the ear. Sutures use to close this incision are removed 10 days after surgery. The incision eventually fades completely.
- Through this incision, the cartilage can be molded and folded back to allow the ear to lay closer to the head. The cartilage can also be sculpted. Problems with the lower portion of the ear and earlobe can also be corrected.
- Rarely are the two ears in the same person the same. Every attempt is made to make the two sides more symmetrical.
After Your Otoplasty Surgery
- The ears are bandaged with a dressing that wraps around the head in a turban-like fashion for one week.
- Initial mild post-operative discomfort is easily managed with oral medication.
- The ears usually look normal within 10-20 days.
- After the initial dressing is removed, a head band is worn day and night for 7 days to protect the ears. It is then worn at night during sleep for 2 more weeks.
- Contact sports should be avoided for about a month.
The Otoplasty procedure is appropriate beginning at age 6 or 7 or any time thereafter.