Ear Surgery
Overview
Ear surgery or otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that can reshape the ears, decrease their size, or pin back ears that protrude for natural-looking, proportionate appearance. Otoplasty can give patients as young as 6 years old confidence, freedom from anxiety, and avoid teasing during their childhood. At Contour Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Downers Grove, IL, plastic surgeon Dr. Paresi addresses abnormalities of the ears with ear surgery that removes excess cartilage, repositions the ears for a better fit with the face’s natural contours, and pins back ears that stick out too far.
Ear Surgery Results
Causes of Prominent Ears
The two most common causes of prominent ears are; lack of the antihelical fold, and conchal bowl excess. Patients may have one or both of these issues which cause their prominent ears. Lack of an antihelical fold is when the upper part of the ear (scaphae) is not adequately folded resulting in an ear that excessively sticks out from the side of the head. The concha is the central portion of the ear where the ear canal is. In some cases, this conchal bowl is too large ( conchal hypertrophy) resulting in a more prominent ear. This conchal bowl can be reduced to address the prominent ear.
Earlobe Repair
Torn earlobe repair is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures on the ears. Most commonly, it involves a linear tear on the earlobe from earrings that have torn through. In more complex cases, such as gauged ears, the repair is more complicated. In either case,these repairs can be done under local anesthesia in less than one hour. Patients can have their ears re-pierced in about a month.
Surgical Technique
After Surgery
Ear Surgery FAQs
Permanent Results?
Ideal Age?
Children between the ages of 4-6 are considered within the ideal range for this surgery. From an anatomical standpoint, the cartilage is still soft and will be easier to remold and manipulate. From a psychological standpoint, having this surgery before starting elementary school can help avoid teasing and ridicule from classmates.
Both Ear or Just One?
In the majority of cases, both ears are affected. Therefore, surgery is performed on both ears. However, there may sometimes be an abnormality in just one ear. If this is the case, surgery will be performed on the affected ear, which will be made to match the opposing ear.
Still have a question?
At Contour Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your choices. Contact us today to schedule your consultation — your journey to looking and feeling your best starts here!