Surgical Facial » Otoplasty (Correction of Prominent Ears)
Ear Surgery – Otoplasty
Protruding ears are often a point of negative attention for young and old. Surgical correction can help create a more pleasing look and contour. Maybe you’ve been teased about your ears, or have chosen hairstyles particularly to cover up your ears. Maybe you think it’s time to do something about it. We want to help you get the answers you need to make the right decision for you.
Ears that protrude or are not symmetrical may be from overgrowth of cartilage in one area of the ear or incomplete folding of ear cartilage during development. Cosmetic surgery can help ears match and sit closer to the head.
An otoplasty typically is performed through an incision in back of the ear. The folds are recreated, extra cartilage is removed and the pole of the ear is repositioned. Both permanent and dissolving sutures maybe used to help maintain the ear’s new shape.
Although generally considered cosmetic surgery, some insurance policies will cover otoplasty in children. A letter to the insurance carrier prior to the surgery is required for preauthorization. For more information on insurance and pricing information, please visit our financing page.
Otoplasty FAQs
How long will the bruising and swelling last?
Swelling usually peaks at four to five days and then starts to subside. Do not be concerned if bruising drifts down to neck or face. Gravity tends to pull the bruising and swelling down. The bruising should improve two weeks after surgery but some residual bruising may last up to eight weeks. Puffiness of the ears on some patients lasts three to six months.
What type of dressing will I have?
A gauze dressing will be stitched around the inside of your ears and will be removed in three to four days after surgery. You will wear a headband continuously for one month following surgery to keep your ears in proper position while they are healing. If it feels too tight, you may unwrap it and then rewrap it a little looser.
When can I shower?
You make take a lukewarm shower and wash your hair on the third post-operative day. Remove the headband, shower, dab your ears dry with a clean towel, towel dry your hair, and then rewrap the headband. Do not blow-dry your hair for one week after surgery. The heat will increase swelling.
