Most of us never notice another person’s ears, but if those ears protrude from the person’s head, they can draw unwanted attention. Children with oversized, protruding, or oddly shaped ears may experience self-consciousness, and peers may tease them. Otoplasty gives you or your child proportionate ears that lay flatter against the head.
What is Otoplasty or Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty is sometimes called prominent ear reduction or ear surgery. It surgically reshapes or adjusts the ear cartilage to improve the appearance of the ears. Dr. Schalit offers otoplasty for prominent ear reduction, ear resizing, and reconstruction of congenital (present from birth) small ears. He also performs otoplasty to correct the effects of injury or previous ear surgery.
*Individual results may vary.
Am I a Candidate for Otoplasty?
Most cosmetic surgery addresses adults. However, the best candidates for otoplasty are children between four and six. The ears have developed to their full size at this age, but the cartilage remains softer and easier to manipulate than an adult’s. Older children and adults still make good candidates if they have concerns about their ears.
Children or adults undergoing ear surgery should be healthy and understand what to expect during recovery. Dr. Schalit assesses each child to ensure otoplasty will meet their needs. Children typically feel significantly better about their appearance after prominent ear reduction, but adults will also enjoy the benefits.
How Does the Otoplasty Procedure Work?
A typical ear surgery begins with an incision to access the cartilage behind the ear. Dr. Schalit will remove or reshape the cartilage and suture it into its new position. Once healed, this cartilage will hold the ear flatter against the head.
For unusually large ears, excess skin and cartilage may be removed. Ear reconstruction usually involves a more complex procedure, including creating a scaffold from rib cartilage. Dr. Schalit will review the details of your treatment plan, so you know what to expect.
Request a Consultation
Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our highly trained staff members at Dr. Schalit Cosmetic Facial Specialist will reach out to your promptly to schedule your appointment.
What is Recovery Like After Otoplasty?
You will have bandages around your head for several days after ear surgery. Your ear area may look swollen and red for a few weeks. Dr. Schalit will recommend a headband to wear during sleep to protect your ears. Children must be monitored to ensure they do not rub, pull on, or put stress on their ears as they heal.
What Results Will I See With Otoplasty?
You will notice a difference when your bandages come off after ear surgery. However, you will also have some swelling that affects your appearance. Your final results will appear as the swelling resolves. People who have otoplasty find that the results give them a newfound self-confidence, and children may become more outgoing and less self-conscious.
This office has hands down, the most outstanding, knowledgeable, and helpful staff. From my 1st phone call to my visits with Dr. Schalit are top notch. Thank you to Dr. Schalit for always taking good care of me!!
AL
Take the Next Step
If you have further questions about otoplasty, we encourage you to schedule a private consultation with us in Daytona Beach, Florida, today. Call us at (386) 239-3600 or fill out our convenient online contact form.
