Ear Surgery
Prominent ear correction/ Bat ear correction/ Otoplasty
Otoplasty, also called ear surgery, aims to improve the appearance of the ears by improving the shape, position or proportion of the ear. It can also correct certain defects in the ear structure that may be present at birth or that becomes apparent with development. Otoplasty can also treat misshapen ears caused by injury.
Procedure
Otoplasty sets prominent ears back closer to the head and/or reduces the size of large ears. It can create a more natural shape and size while bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face. Correction of even minor deformities can have enormous benefits to appearance and self-esteem. If protruding or disfigured ears bother you or your child, you may consider plastic surgery. Cosmetic ear surgery is most often performed on children between the ages of four and fourteen and may be covered by insurance.
Length
Approximately two hours.
Anesthesia
Young children are usually given general anesthesia. For older children or adults, a general or local anesthesia can be used along with sedation.
Inpatient/Outpatient
Usually this is an outpatient procedure.
Risks
Infection, bleeding, swelling, bruising, numbness, excessive scarring, blood clots that may need to be drained, mismatched or artificial-looking ears, or the recurrence of the protrusion, which requires repeat surgery.
Possible Side Effects
Temporary throbbing, itching, aching, swelling, redness and/or numbness.
Recovery
The patient may return to school or work within five to seven days, and resume strenuous activity, such as contact sports in one to two months. A compression garment is required to use for 4 weeks.
Results
Usually permanent.
Ear Surgery Before
External Stitches
Ear Surgery Results