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What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that allows us to alter the ear’s size, structure, or position. This procedure is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed on children, as ear-related issues can emerge at birth. However, it can usually be performed on patients of any age above 5 years.
Brittany K. Eidson, DDS, FACS
Double-Board Certified Facial Cosmetic Surgeon
Dr. Brittany Eidson, DDS, FACS, is a highly accomplished Double-Board Certified Facial Cosmetic Surgeon and Fellowship-trained Cosmetic Surgeon. A Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Dr. Eidson co-founded TruForm Surgery.
learn moreWho Is a Candidate for Otoplasty?
Not everyone is a good fit for the otoplasty procedure. People who can benefit from this procedure experience distress or other complications due to the size or position of their ears. This procedure isn’t designed to increase someone’s ability to hear. Good candidates are generally in good health and are willing to be open about their expectations and their medical history to make sure that this procedure is the right fit. If a child is undergoing this surgery, it’s important that they’re not in clear distress during the time of consultation or present signs that indicate a lack of consent. We’ll go over the risk associated with this surgery during your consultation so you can make the best decision for you or your child. However, we want to assure you that our team is expertly trained, and with us, you’ll get the highest quality care available.
What to Expect During an Otoplasty Procedure
We’ll give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, so don’t worry–you’ll be able to arrive feeling informed and confident. You might be asked to stop taking certain medications before and immediately after the surgery, especially if they prevent blood clotting. Make sure that someone is ready to drive you or your child home afterward.
After you’re given either local or general anesthesia, we’ll start the procedure. The techniques we use will vary depending on the procedure. Generally, we’ll make a precise cut on the backside of the ear or inside the ear’s natural creases, allowing us to access underlying cartilage. We can remove or reposition cartilage as necessary, securing it in place. After we’ve finished restructuring, we’ll close up the cuts. This procedure can usually be done within a couple of hours.
Otoplasty Aftercare
We’ll give you a thorough and detailed plan on how to take care of yourself or your child at home so the healing process can go as smoothly as possible. Some discomfort, like pain and itchiness, is not uncommon in the days following the surgery. Let us know if you’re having trouble managing pain at home, or if it gets worse. You might need to keep from sleeping on the side of your body where the procedure was performed, and it’s a good idea to wear clothes that can be removed without tugging on the area. We’ll tell you when to come in for a checkup and to have bandages removed or replaced. You might need to limit physical activity for a matter of days after the procedure. We’ll give you all the information you need so you or your child can carry on normally as quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age for an otoplasty?
Do otoplasty results last forever?
Are otoplasty results noticeable?
Schedule a Consultation
We take our patients’ comfort very seriously, and we also believe in having honest, open discussions so you can make the most informed decision possible. By consulting with us, we can determine what might be the best procedure for you or your child. To start the conversation, contact our office in Brighton, MI.