Protruding ears are a source of embarrassment and mental anguish for many people, especially children.  In the past few decades, thousands of individuals have been physically as well as psychologically helped through otoplasty, a surgical procedure designed to correct this condition. 

There are several surgical procedures which are designed to bring the ears closer to the head.  A basic procedure involves making an incision at the back of the ear to expose firm tissue called cartilage.  The surgeon may either fold down the cartilage and use the sutures to keep the folds together or will remove excess cartilage.  After reshaping the cartilage, the incisions are closed with small sutures, and the ears are covered with bandages.  Otoplasty can be performed under general anesthesia in which the patient is put to sleep, or under local anesthesia in which the areas are numbed and the patient remains awake.

Pain or discomfort connected with the surgery is controlled by medications.  Bandages are removed within a few days and may be replaced by a somewhat lighter dressing which is worn for several weeks.  Scars from the incisions are, for the most part, inconspicuous because they are made within the creases of the ears.

If you are interested in learning more about otoplasty, please call our office and we will be happy to answer your questions.

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