Ear surgery, known as otoplasty, is a procedure that has helped many people improve the appearance of their ears, which can positively impact their self-esteem. This facial cosmetic surgery can correct defects such as asymmetries, microtia (ears that have not developed properly), or other congenital or trauma-induced issues. However, it is most commonly used to enhance the aesthetics of prominent ears or ears that stick out too far from the head. If you are considering otoplasty, it is important to understand what it involves, what problems it can correct, and how it is performed. Here’s a complete guide.
Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is a facial cosmetic procedure designed to correct deformities or enhance the appearance of the ears. It is a relatively simple and quick surgery commonly performed on individuals who want to reduce the size of their ears, correct their shape, or reposition them closer to the head.
Otoplasty can correct various aesthetic imperfections of the ears to achieve greater harmony between the ears and the rest of the facial features, resulting in a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.
Prominent ears, also known as protruding ears, are those that stick out noticeably from the head. This condition can occur in one or both ears and, when very pronounced, often leads to complexes or self-esteem issues, especially when the person has been teased about it since childhood. Prominent or protruding ears are one of the most common issues corrected with otoplasty. During surgery, the surgeon repositions the ears closer to the head, creating a more natural and discreet appearance.
Some individuals may feel that their ears are too large in proportion to the rest of their face. Otoplasty allows for a reduction in the size of the ears, making them more balanced and harmonious with the rest of the facial features.
Otoplasty is also effective in correcting asymmetries, where one ear may be larger or have a different shape than the other. This asymmetry can be congenital or acquired due to trauma or, less commonly, illness. It’s common for there to be some asymmetry between both ears; however, when the difference is very noticeable, it can cause self-esteem issues. To correct this, the surgeon can reshape the ears’ form, dimensions, and position to achieve a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Ear surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the case and the patient’s age. In adults, it is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation. In children, general anesthesia is more commonly used to keep them calm and relaxed during the procedure. The operation lasts between one and two hours, during which the surgeon makes a small incision behind the ear to access the cartilage. From there, the cartilage is reshaped and repositioned to achieve the desired effect.
Otoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient goes home the same day as the surgery.
The location of the incision, and therefore the scar after otoplasty, depends on what needs to be corrected in each patient. However, it is most commonly hidden discreetly in the natural fold between the ear and the head, on the back of the ear. This allows the ear itself to cover the small incision made to correct the ears. Over time, the scar becomes almost imperceptible.
It is most common for those undergoing ear surgery to be adults. However, it’s important to note that otoplasty is the most requested cosmetic surgery among minors. This is because many children may suffer from bullying or teasing due to the shape or size of their ears, leading to significant self-esteem issues and insecurities. When this happens and the situation cannot be resolved in other ways, otoplasty can be performed on children as young as 7 or 8 years old.
After the surgery, it is normal to experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with pain relievers prescribed by the medical team. It is recommended to wear an elastic band around the head during the first few weeks to protect the ears, help maintain the correct position, and aid in proper incision healing. Most people can return to their normal activities within a few days, but it’s important to avoid activities that could bend or traumatize the ears during the first month.
The results of otoplasty are usually evident, achieving greater harmony between the ears, facial features, and overall head shape. In the case of prominent or protruding ears, the ears will be positioned closer to the head and will no longer stick out noticeably. For overly large ears, they will appear more proportionate with the rest of the head. In cases of asymmetry, the ears will be more balanced with each other.
