Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a procedure in which prominent or protruding ears are pinned back against the head. Ears that stick out can be the focus of much unwanted teasing and negative attention, especially during childhood and adolescence, causing social anxiety, low self-esteem and feelings of frustration. If left unchecked, these feelings can lead to significant psychological trauma. In some cases, ear irregularities, such as folded ears, hidden ears or misshapen lobes, are the result of congenital defects.

Thankfully, all these conditions respond quite favorably to the otoplasty procedure.  Ear Surgery may be performed on children five years of age and up, since by then the cartilage has reached its mature development. The procedure is often recommended by psychologists and counselors at this time so that the child can enter school with a positive self-image. While children represent a large portion of ear surgery candidates, it is not uncommon for adults to also seek otoplasty.

DETAILS of OTOPLASTY

Our ear surgery clients are usually in the operating room for around 90 minutes, during which time the ear’s cartilage is reshaped, repositioned and/or reduced. Young patients will require general anesthesia, while adults may opt for local anesthesia with mild sedation.

Dr. Shabdiz offers Otoplasty (ear surgery) to his patients in Orange County, CA. During ear surgery Dr. Shabdiz will make an inconspicuous incision behind the ear. The ear cartilage is then either partially reduced, scored or drawn backwards using sutures to produce a more attractive ear contour. Great care is taken to ensure ear symmetry. Reshaping of the concha or earlobe may then be performed, followed by removable sutures.

WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT?

The dramatic, positive results of cosmetic ear surgery are immediately noticeable (after the bandages are removed), and the benefits to the recipient’s self-esteem last a lifetime. Otoplasty is not reserved for major corrections, such as unevenness, or protrusion, Dr. Shabdiz also offers cosmetic ear surgery to those with minor aesthetic imperfections, from ear lobes with wrinkles or creases, to cupped or lopped ears, as there are many reasons an individual may choose to undergo Otoplasty surgery.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS?

There are standard risks in every surgical procedure, and Otoplasty is no exception; Dr. Shabdiz will explain how to prepare for surgery, as well as what to do and not do during convalescence. During the initial consultation, Dr. Shabdiz will review all general risks inherent to plastic surgery, as well as specific information regarding Otoplasty. Some risks include, but are not limited to: bleeding, infection, scar formation, ear discomfort, and reaction to anesthesia.

RECOVERY FROM EAR SURGERY

Due to Dr. Shabdiz’s expertise with the procedure, most ear surgery clients experience minimal pain, discomfort, or scarring. Swelling usually subsides within a few days, along with any bruising. Medication is always available, of course, for those who desire it, and Dr. Shabdiz along with his caring staff will be on hand 24/7 to answer any questions if they arise.

Pressure dressings may be present in order to preserve the ear shape and reduce excess fluids from building up, but these are removed shortly, within the first week. During this time, clients should refrain from washing their hair. In general, patients should take care to make sure the ears are not disturbed for several weeks by sleeping on their backs and limiting rigorous physical activities for up to two weeks.

The usual course of Otoplasty involves some pain for 1-2 days and associated swelling of the skin around the ear with some red or bluish discoloration that subsides within a week. Patients can usually return to their social life within days of the surgery but are advised to wear a headband at night for the first three weeks after removing the dressing.