Surgery for Protruding Ears

Otoplasty, commonly known as surgery to pin back the protruding ear, is a procedure performed on individuals of all ages. It is the only plastic surgery procedure commonly performed on children who, after the age of 6 years, can undergo the procedure as their ears are 90% or more of adult size. The potentially dramatic results obtainable by this relatively minor surgery, including the reshaping, the reduction in size, the creation of symmetry, as well as the pinning back of the ears, can improve an individuals self-esteem.

In otoplasty, the goal is to create ears that are symmetrical and in proportion to the size and shape of the face and head. In no way should hearing be affected. The procedure involves the sculpting of cartilage and the removal of excess skin and occasional cartilage. Technically speaking, the ears are not pinned back or sutured to the skin behind the ear, but rather the natural shape of the ears is restored with all internal sutures and cartilage sculpting. Once healed, the results are permanent, and a virtually undetectable incision is hidden on the back of the side of the ear in a skin crease.

Otoplasty, a 2- to 3-hour procedure, is performed on an outpatient basis. In young children, the procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, but in adults and motivated children over the age of nine or ten, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia combined with some sedation. A compressive dressing is usually worn for the first 3 days after which a headband is worn for two weeks. There is usually only mild bruising and minimal discomfort, and most regular activities can be resumed after the dressing is removed.

An article authored by Dr. Epstein that recently appeared in Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery can be viewed here. This article describes a new technique developed by Dr. Epstein for attaining reliable and natural-appearing results of the ears.

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