Otoplasty - Ear Reconstructive
Surgery

Aesthetic plastic surgery can improve the shape or positioning of your ears if they protrude more than normal. Imperfectly shaped ears can be a significant problem for children as they are easy targets for teasing and derogatory remarks by their peers.

The most common technique involves reshaping or removing some of the cartilage behind the ear. This is accomplished through incisions behind the ears so that subsequent scars will be concealed in a natural skin crease. Usually surgery takes approximately one to two hours, and is done under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.

After surgery, the ears are covered with a dressing. Any soreness or discomfort can be easily controlled with medication. Within four to five days the dressings are taken off, though some patients will wear a light headband dressing for a couple of weeks to ensure that the ears heal in their new, corrected position. Moderate activity and no contact sports are recommended for several weeks.

This procedure offers dramatic, immediate results that will last a lifetime. It's a great example of the important psychological benefits that often accompany cosmetic surgery.