Ear Pinning Surgery (Otoplasty):

What is ear surgery?

Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears.

For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.

How is the procedure performed?

If your child is young, Dr. Bootstaylor may recommend general anesthesia. For older children or adults, Dr. Bootstaylor may prefer local anesthesia, combined with a sedative, so you or your child will be awake but relaxed.

How quickly will I heal?

Ear surgery usually takes about two to three hours, although complicated procedures may take longer. The technique will depend on the problem.

Dr. Bootstaylor will make a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. She will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back toward the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape.

In most cases, ear surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance.

What are my risks?

Complications with ear surgery are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

A small percentage of patients may develop a blood clot on the ear. It may dissolve naturally or can be drawn out with a needle.

Occasionally, patients develop an infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue. Such infections are usually treated with antibiotics; rarely, surgery may be required to drain the infected area.