Ear Surgery
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure, provided by a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, that improves the ears and facial profile by correcting misshapen and excessively large ears. Patients can undergo a number of different techniques for otoplasty that can change the size, shape, and position of the ears to provide patients with ears that match their face and head. In Atlanta, Dr. Aisha Baron performs “ear-pinning” on children as young as 5 years of age, but it can also be performed on older patients. Typically, parents seek this surgical option to treat large ears in order to prevent or stop teasing and bullying. The “pinning back” of ears is the most common surgical procedure for these cases and redefines the ears and overall appearance.
Best Candidates
Otoplasty patients should be at least 5 years old and have one of the following concerns:
- Ears that protrude or stick out from the head
- Ears that are misshapen from a trauma or congenital defect
- Ears that are disproportionately large compared to the head
What To Expect
Otoplasty reshapes the ears by making small incisions behind the ear to expose the cartilage. The cartilage is then removed and reshaped until the ear reaches the desired size and shape. Any excess skin is removed from the ear and in some cases, the ears will be repositioned closer to the head. The technique to treat protrusion (ears that stick out from the head) is commonly referred to as the “pinning back” of the ears. The overall goal of otoplasty is to give patients natural-looking ears and to restore their self-confidence.
Other Considerations
Patients can expect swelling and bruising after undergoing otoplasty. However, this will subside after the first couple of weeks of recovery. An elastic headband is usually worn for the first several weeks after surgery to keep the ears in their new position and patients are advised to avoid strenuous work for approximately 1-2 months after their surgery. Children who have otoplasty will need to be closely monitored throughout the healing process, so they do not compromise the healing of their ears or cause agitation by rubbing or scratching.
Improve Your Ears
Otoplasty can help patients, especially children, enjoy the way they look and restore their confidence and happiness. Having misshapen or excessively large ears can cause unwanted attention and teasing that can affect self esteem. We encourage anyone who is looking into otoplasty for themselves or their children to schedule a consultation with Dr. Baron at her office in Marietta, GA. It is her goal to help you feel good about your appearance.
