Otoplasty (Ear Surgery or pinning) is an operation performed to change the shape, size or appearance of protruding ears.
Large or protruding ears can have a very negative effect on one’s self esteem. It is generally performed between 6 and 15 years old to improve their appearance and their self-confidence but is performed on adults as well.
What Does Otoplasty Do?
Otoplasty is performed by Dr. Okoro for patients to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For large ears, otoplasty can reduce the size of the ears. Ear surgery can also involve repairing various ear injuries such as missing segments and torn earlobes. Total ear reconstruction, creating an entire ear, is a completely different operation from otoplasty.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE?
Good candidates have reached a stable weight, do not smoke (or plan to quit), and do not have medical conditions that prohibit safe surgery and normal wound healing. Dr. Okoro performs ear surgery on both children and adults. In children, otoplasty is usually deferred until school age. To determine if you are a good candidate for ear surgery, Dr. Okoro will review your health history and perform an examination during your consultation.
WHAT HAPPENS AT CONSULTATION?
Dr. Okoro will carefully examine your ears, including the skin and underlying cartilage. We will also take preoperative photos during your visit. During the consultation, Dr. Okoro will understand your goals and desires and he will review available techniques and incision sites.
THE EAR SURGERY PROCEDURE
Dr. Okoro performs ear surgery as an outpatient procedure under sedation or general anesthesia, depending on patient age. To alter ear size and shape, Dr. Okoro makes an incision behind the ear to expose the underlying cartilage. He changes the shape of underlying ear cartilage by removing portions of it or by forming normal folds of the ear where they are absent.
Protruding ears can be corrected by reshaping the underlying cartilage. To provide the final shape, Dr. Okoro then manipulates the cartilage with various sutures and technique. Scars usually heal well and are hidden behind the ears. Earlobe repairs can be performed under local anesthesia without sedation.
We often recommend that a headband be worn for several weeks after surgery to protect the ears while sleeping. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
The cost of ear surgery varies based on the extend of surgery needed and the cost of any additional surgery. To make your surgery affordable, we offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask us. The cost may include the following:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Anesthesia fees
- Medication and lab test
Most health insurance plans will not cover cosmetic ear surgery or related complications. Please carefully review your health insurance policy.
How Do I Get Started?
For more information about ear surgery or to schedule a consultation at our Atlanta area plastic surgery practice, please call us or email us today!
