Otoplasty: What You Should Know About It

Otoplasty is the medical name for surgical alteration of the ears

. Many people are born with ears that are too large or stick out away from their head. This is a common facial flaw which is usually genetic, in that it is a physical trait that has been inherited from someone in the family. Unfortunately, beginning at a very young age, this can become the cause of teasing and ridicule by others. It can be a devastating blow to a child's emerging self esteem and it is for this reason that it is often recommended that otoplasty be performed during childhood.

Otoplasty, or ear pinning, is performed by a plastic surgeon. It is considered elective surgery, so will not be covered by medical insurance policies. The procedure takes less than a couple of hours to perform and is completed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient will go home the same day. They generally use a local anesthetic during surgery.

There is reportedly a minimum amount of pain post-op which will easily be controlled by pain medication, if necessary. Swelling and bruising will occur but should subside within a few weeks. A compression headband will need to be worn around the head and ears for several weeks in order to hold and support the area in its proper position. A patient may return to work within a week and resume physical exercise within six weeks. It is important that the patient wear sunscreen for at least one year in order to protect the healing skin and tissue.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions behind the ears and fold the cartilage into proper positioning before attaching all with sutures. There are occasions when an incision may be made in front of the ear as well, but this is rare. Skin and cartilage may also need to be removed. Because the human body is not as symmetrical as it appears to be, one ear may need more modification than the other in order to achieve a balanced look.

Risks of complications occur with any medical procedure and the otoplasty is no exception. Complications may include excessive bleeding, infection, adverse reaction to the anesthetic and stitches working their way loose resulting in the ear returning to its original positioning and requiring a second surgery. All of these complications are rare, however. Most patients are thrilled with the result and experience quite a boost in confidence and improved self image.

A person's self image is very important. Feeling good about one's appearance spills over into all other areas of life and invites a more successful existence. Otoplasty can be an extremely worthwhile cosmetic procedure in either childhood or adulthood as a way to enhance one's looks and life.

by: Abigail Aaronson

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