Ear Reshaping (Otoplasty)

What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that can adjust the size, shape, position and projection of the ears. It is designed to make the ears look more natural and proportional to the rest of the face and head. Otoplasty also encompasses reconstructive surgery on the ears, repairing issues resulting from trauma or previous surgeries.

What Can Otoplasty Do?

Otoplasty cannot fix problems related to loss of hearing or ear function, but it can:

• Correct structural defects of the ear
• Reduce the size of overly large ears (known as macrotia)
• Improve ears that are asymmetrical in size, shape or position
• “Pin back” ears that are protruding from your head
• Restore balance and proportion to your face

What Is the Best Age for Otoplasty?

Ear reshaping can be performed on patients of nearly any age, from young children to elderly adults. The ideal age for otoplasty will depend on the patient and their individual circumstances.

Otoplasty for Children

Otoplasty is one of the few plastic surgeries that can be performed on children as young as 5 because it is a safe procedure that can have a life-changing effect on the patient. Most children who undergo otoplasty do so between the ages of 5 and 7 years old. By this age, the ear cartilage is typically fully developed, and children are typically able to understand what the procedure will accomplish for them.

What Happens During an Otoplasty Consultation at Terrasse Aesthetic Surgery?

At your initial consultation with Dr. Terrasse, he will talk with you about your concerns and examine your ears to determine a course of action. No matter whether your problem is cosmetic or reconstructive, Dr. Terrasse will come up with a treatment plan customized to your unique needs.

What to Expect From Your Otoplasty Procedure

What Type of Anesthesia Is Used for Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed using either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation. Dr. Terrasse will help you choose the best option based on the extent of your procedure and your needs.

Where Are the Incisions Made for Otoplasty?

The incision technique used for ear reshaping will depend on your desired result, but in general, all incisions used in otoplasty are made on the surface behind the ear. Any necessary incisions on the front of the ear are hidden within the natural folds of your ears. No matter the incision placement, Dr. Terrasse uses meticulous, precise sutures to ensure that there is minimal scarring.

How Are the Ears Adjusted?

If the ears need to be brought closer to the head, tissue is removed from behind the ears. Sutures are used to reduce overly large ears and adjust the folds of the ears as necessary. These sutures hold the reshaped ear cartilage in place for long-lasting results. Stitches are used to close any external incisions.

What to Expect After Otoplasty

After your surgery, you may experience some minor discomfort and mild swelling, but this is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or ice. Dr. Terrasse will provide you with post-surgery instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to evaluate you and ensure you are healing properly.

What Is the Recovery Time for Otoplasty?

You will be able to resume your normal routine within about three days of the procedure and get back to exercise and more physical activity in a couple of weeks. Your ears should be fully healed within six to eight weeks, during which time you will need to wear a headband over your ears to protect them while sleeping and playing sports or other activities that might involve the ears being accidentally pulled or moved.

How Do You Sleep After Otoplasty?

For the first week after ear reshaping surgery, we recommend sleeping with your head elevated. You can do this by propping your head up with pillows or sleeping in a recliner or on an adjustable bed. Patients should also wear a headband over their ears while sleeping for six to eight weeks to protect the new structures of their ears.

When Will I See My Ear Reshaping Results?

The results of your otoplasty will be visible immediately, although your full results won’t be evident until one to three weeks after your surgery, depending on how extensive the surgery was and how quickly you heal. Results are lasting, and you can return to your life feeling confident and happy with your appearance.

Does Otoplasty Last Forever?

Ear reshaping provides results that are designed to be permanent and last throughout your or your child’s lifetime. Once you have fully recovered, your results should last forever unless an accident or injury alters the shape of your ears.