Ears come in all shapes and sizes. Some people who have ears that are too big or malformed experience a great deal of teasing and suffer from low self-esteem as a result. This especially holds true for children – commonly, ears that stick out can be an easy target for teasing by classmates.

Adults with large or prominent ears can also experience insecurity, anxiety, and a feeling of low self-worth. People can be emotionally scarred by cruel remarks about their prominent ears.

Fortunately, thanks to advancements in cosmetic technology, a relatively simple surgical procedure called otoplasty can bring symmetry and balance to the ears.

What Is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning, is a plastic-surgery procedure that specifically corrects the size, shape, or positioning of the ears. It is done to make the ears to look more proportionate to one’s overall facial structure and can also be performed to address a birth defect or injury.

For children, it is mostly a corrective surgery where the ears are set on the right path to grow well and look their best. The procedure can help children by correcting their ear defects and by making them feel more confident and secure in their new look.

Among adults, the procedure can permanently fix or correct the placement, position, proportion, and shape of the ear. Adults may have faced injuries and accidents that will warrant a surgery to make the ears look as they should. The idea behind otoplasty is to bring a more natural shape and overall appearance to the ears.

How Does Otoplasty Work?

Otoplasty procedures are very straightforward. The main focus is the fold that lies in the inner rim of the ear. The procedure can either increase or decrease the fold’s size or create the fold if it doesn’t exist.

Before an otoplasty surgery, Dr. Hustak and Dr. Wentworth will administer a local or general anesthetic. The procedure takes one to two hours to perform.

During the procedure, incisions are normally made behind the ear. Ear cartilage may be reshaped, folded, or removed as needed, and stitches may be used to hold parts of your ear in their new positions. When the surgery is complete, the incisions will be closed with sutures.

What Happens After the Procedure?

After the otoplasty procedure, your ears will be covered in bandages to protect and support them. You’re likely to feel a little discomfort and itching. Dr. Hustak and Dr. Wentworth will prescribe pain medication. A few days after the procedure, she will remove your bandages during a follow-up appointment. You’ll need to wear a loose headband that covers your ears at night for two to six weeks.

After you get your bandages removed, you will notice an immediate and distinct change in the appearance of your ears. These changes are permanent.

Get In Touch to Learn More

Want to learn more about otoplasty surgery? The best way to do so is by contacting the offices of Dr. Hustak or Dr. Wentworth, experienced plastic surgeons. During your consultation, you will be able to discuss the procedure, recovery, and more.