Otoplasty
or ear reshaping is performed on patients with prominent ears. The ears
typically stick out much more than normal from the head. This procedure
is typically performed in children or teenagers but also occasionally
in adults. Incisions are made behind the ears and are well hidden. The
technique involves utilizing both sutures and/or other approaches to
reshape the cartilage to allow the ear to sit back in a more natural
fashion.
The surgery is performed as an outpatient under general anesthesia. Complications from the surgery include infection, asymmetry between the ears, and most importantly there is the possibility that the correction may not be permanent. Dressings are applied at the time of surgery and are removed after several days and sutures taken out 10-14 days later.
Although some asymmetry may exist following surgery, the majority of patients are very pleased with their results