Otoplasty (Ears)

Otoplasty is an operation that is performed to correct prominent ears. This condition can be moderate or severe and manifests itself by causing ears to protrude and cup forward. While usually diagnosed at a younger age, this condition is ignored and camouflaged by wearing the hair longer. In children, it is often cause for ridicule by classmates and may cause significant psychosocial concerns.

The operation, which can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia, consists of making a small incision behind the ear removing some of the cartilage and manipulating the cartilage with sutures in essence "pinning the ears back" to a more aesthetically pleasing position. The patient is required to wear a headband for several days after surgery. Children can usually return to school in several days and full activity is resumed within two weeks. The satisfaction rate for this surgery is extremely high as the results are immediately visible and are usually lifelong.