The term “otoplasty” literally means “reshaping or reforming ears.” Most commonly the procedure is performed to correct prominent ears by setting them back closer to the head. Ears come in all shapes and sizes, however, and “otoplasty” may refer to correction of a number of different ear deformities.
In cases of protruding or over-developed ears, the procedure of otoplasty is often the correctional option. Otoplasty is commonly referred to as “pinning back” of the ears, or more simply ear surgery. It is available for children once their ears have stopped developing, usually around the age of six.
Over-developed ears can be the cause of psychological stress and trauma and should be treated at a young age before it becomes a serious issue. Dr. Vendetti is trained to eliminate the majority of the problems related to protruding ears.
The procedure can be performed on either children (as young as two years of age) or adults.
The surgery takes approximately 45 minutes per ear.
An incision is placed in the crease behind the ear. Sutures are used to correct the shape of the ear and change the position of the ear relative to the head. Sometimes a piece of cartilage is removed.
In patients who desire reduction in the size of the ear, sometimes an incision is placed on the front of the ear, just inside the rim, where the incision will not be visible.
Any incision results in a scar, but the incisions are placed so that they will be inconspicuous and, hopefully, almost invisible.
A bulky dressing is placed on the head for a few days. When the dressing is removed, the ears will be somewhat swollen. A soft headband is worn at night to protect the ears.
The patient can return to school or work in less than a week and full activity (including sports) in approximately two weeks.
