According to studies, a typical ear measures around 2 -2.5 centimeters from the side of the head. While smaller or slightly larger ears may not be anything to worry about, significantly prominent ones that might not be symmetrical may impact the overall facial appearance.
Children or adults with ear problems resulting from sustained injuries or congenital anomalies can benefit significantly from reconstructive ear-shaping surgery, popularly known as otoplasty.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure meant to enhance ear appearance by modifying their projection, altering their shape, or resizing them. It’s a method commonly used in treating ears that protrude away from the head. If you have ears that stick-out, the surgeon may recommend an ear pinning procedure. Repositioning may also be an option for ears with misaligned symmetry.
The surgery is common among children between the ages of four to fourteen; however, older patients can still qualify for an Otoplasty procedure. The outcome from the surgery varies widely depending on the reshaping process. Regardless of the issue and the treatment process, the main goal is to help improve your self-esteem. This is particularly true for teenagers and children who are susceptible to being bullied or teased by others.
Why Consider Ear Surgery?
Ear surgery is not as popular as other cosmetic surgery procedures, but it’s effective in addressing most aesthetic flaws. Parents may not always notice there’s a problem with their children’s ears until the ears reach an optimal size, usually at around age 8.
For children born with overly large or prominent ears, waiting until the ears have grown to full size before Otoplasty is optimal. For anyone wishing to enhance their appearance, Otoplasty procedure can help in:
- Reshaping ears unproportioned to the face, commonly known as “stick-out” ears.
- Adjusting folded ears and resizing long earlobes
- Flattening overly prominent sized ears
- Correcting issues arising from accidents or injuries
Surgical Procedure and Aftercare
The surgeon will often perform Otoplasty under deep anesthesia for children, while local anesthesia with sedation will do for adults. The procedure begins with a shallow, hidden incision behind the ear, allowing the cartilage to be reshaped and positioned nearer to the head. Depending on the issues, the typical Otoplasty procedure takes around one to two hours.
Once the surgery is complete, your surgeon will recommend plenty of rest for a couple of days to speed up the healing process. The surgeon may apply bandages or some smaller dressing around the head (based on the incision size) to secure the ear in place. In a week, the surgeon will check the progress and change the bandage to a lighter or preferably smaller dressing. Any mild pain after the procedure is normal, and your surgeon will most likely prescribe a painkiller.
Ear Surgery in Phoenix
Regardless of the reason for wanting otoplasty, the process has a significantly high success rate. However, this isn’t to say that there are no complications. Working with a qualified and licensed cosmetic surgeon like A. Chasby Sacks, M.D. from the initial consultation through surgery and aftercare reduces the chances of developing post-surgery complications. Call Arizona Cosmetic Surgery in Phoenix to schedule your consultation today!