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Alternative Names Return to top
Otoplasty; Ear surgery - cosmeticDefinition Return to top
Cosmetic ear surgery is a procedure to move very large or prominent ears closer to the head.
Description Return to top
Cosmetic ear surgery may be done in the surgeon's office, an outpatient clinic, or a hospital. It can be performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the ears, or general anesthesia, which will cause you to sleep through the entire operation. The procedure usually lasts about 2 hours.
During the most common method of cosmetic ear surgery, a surgeon makes a cut in the back of the ear and removes the skin to see the ear cartilage. The cartilage is folded to reshape the ear, bringing it closer to the head. Sometimes the surgeon will cut the cartilage before folding it. Stitches are used to close the wound.
Why the Procedure is Performed Return to top
The procedure can be done after a child reaches age 5 or 6, when ear growth is almost finished. However, if the ears are very disfigured (lop ears), the child should have surgery early to avoid possible emotional stress at school.
Risks Return to top
Complications such as blood clots and infection are uncommon. The child might need a second operation if the ear occasionally sticks out again.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
The ears are covered with a bulky bandage after surgery. Any tenderness and discomfort can easily be controlled with medication. If the surgery is done in a hospital, the child should go home the same day or the next day.
Recovery Return to top
The ear bandages are removed after 2 - 4 days, but the child will need to wear a light head wrap for 2 - 3 weeks to promote healing. Scars are very light and located in the creases behind the ears. The decision on when to return to school and normal activities depends on how fast the child heals.
Update Date: 10/19/2007 Updated by: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 02 January 2008 |