Did you know that about 5% of the population has an ear malformation of some kind? These malformations may include protruding ears or misshapen ears through a birth defect or an injury.
Ears that don’t look “normal” can be a source of discomfort or embarrassment, and may even result in teasing and bullying. The malformation may also affect hearing ability.
So, what can you do if you or your child has ears that don’t quite match the norm? You can consider an otoplasty procedure.
But what is otoplasty surgery? Read on to find out more.
What Is an Otoplasty Procedure?
There are three common types of otoplasty: ear pinning, ear augmentation, and ear reduction.
1. Ear pinning is performed on ears that stick too far out. In this type of otoplasty, ears are brought in closer to the head.
2. Ear augmentation addresses ears that have either not developed properly or are too small. This procedure can improve the proportion of the outer ear.
3. Finally, ear reduction can take care of ears that are too large. During this surgery, the size of both the outer ear and the earlobe may be reduced.
Candidates for Otoplasty
This surgery can be performed on children and adults. It is one of a few plastic surgeries recommended for children if their situation warrants it.
Children aged 5 and above are good otoplasty candidates. By this age, ears are adult-sized. Nonsmoking adults with no underlying medical issues are also good candidates.
What to Expect
An otoplasty ear surgery is an outpatient procedure. Your doctor may use local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. For children, general anesthesia is most recommended.
Unless an injury or malformation is restricted to one ear, surgery is usually performed on both ears to ensure symmetry. The surgery can take 1–3 hours.
Otoplasty recovery time can be up to six weeks. In the beginning, you’ll have bandages on your ears and they may appear red and swollen. As you’re healing, your ears may be sore.
For the first few days after your surgery, your doctor will suggest no pressure on your ears. Once the bandages come off, you’ll have a headband to keep on, especially when sleeping, to help maintain the position of your ears.
You will have scars after surgery, but they are usually behind the ear or hidden between folds and will fade over time.
What Does Otoplasty Surgery Cost?
How much is otoplasty surgery? In general, insurance will not cover the cost of otoplasty surgery. During your consultation with your plastic surgeon, you can discuss the cost.
You will likely need to cover the cost of anesthesia (and the anesthesiologist), the facilities (the operating room and equipment), and the surgeon’s fee.
The Benefits of Otoplasty
If you or your child are suffering from a malformed ear or ears, the benefits of an otoplasty procedure are many and the risks are few. The surgery offers permanent ear correction and a natural-looking ear. This alteration in appearance can boost self-confidence in people of any age and make day-to-day living much happier.
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