Otoplasty, more commonly referred to as ear surgery, is performed to reduce the size of large ears as well as to set the position of the ear closer to the head. Cleft ears and earlobe problems (from pulled or heavy earrings) also can benefit from otoplasty.

Large or protruding ears can be psychologically painful to a child. Otoplasty is performed to improve the appearance of the ear and may help reduce some of the child's anxiety regarding their appearance. Otoplasty is also commonly performed on adults. An ear has generally taken shape by the age of 4 or 5. The ear reshaping surgery is generally performed when the ear shape or size has reached a bothersome point to the patient.

Surgery generally lasts 2-3 hours. An incision is made along the back of the ear where the surgeon will perform some work on the underlying cartilage. By manipulating and/or removing the cartilage, the surgeon is able to shape the ear to a more natural appearance. Following surgery, the patient will be placed in a head wrap for 24-48 hours and may wear some type of headband around the ears for up to two weeks following the procedure.

Besides protruding ears, there are a variety of other ear procedures that can be helped with surgery. These include: “lopear,” when the top seems to fold down and bend forward; “cupped ear,” which is usually a very small ear; and “shell ear,” when the curve in the outer rim, as well as the natural folds and creases, are missing. Surgeons can even build new ears for those who were born without them or who lost them through injury.

Otoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure so the patient may safely return home the day of surgery. It is normally performed under a general anesthesia, although a local anesthesia with sedation may be an option as well. The surgeon will review your specific questions and concerns at your consultation.

The Centre, P.C. also recommends the use of the VitaMedica Surgery Program, a comprehensive pre- and post-surgery nutritional supplement system designed specifically for patients undergoing extensive surgical procedures, such as otoplasty.

Click here to schedule your otoplasty consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. The Centre, P.C. offers the latest cosmetic surgery procedures, including ear reshaping surgery, to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, Michiana and the Southern Michigan area, and Chicago.

 

Elkhart Office

RiverPointe Medical Building
500 Arcade Ave., Suite 300
Elkhart, IN 46514
Phone: 574-296-9100
FAX: 574-293-1511

South Bend Office

MEDICAL PAVILION I
720 EAST CEDAR STREET, SUITE 450
SOUTH BEND, IN 46617
PHONE: 574-233-9100
FAX: 574-233-9108

Chesterton Office

1830 SOUTH 11TH STREET
Chesterton, IN 46304
Phone: 219-395-9200

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