Otoplasty / Ear Pinning Surgery

Plastic and reconstructive surgeons can perform many procedures that improve the shape and position of the ear.  One of the most common of those surgeries is otoplasty, which corrects protruding ears on children and adults.  People commonly refer to otoplasty as “ear pinning surgery.”

Indications for Otoplasty / Ear Surgery

Otoplasty is usually done at an early age to prevent or end teasing by a child’s peers.  The normalizing of the child’s appearance can have a positive effect on his or her self-esteem.  When the ears have fully developed (often as early as age 4) the child can undergo the procedure.  If you are an adult and believe that your ears are out of proportion, otoplasty may be beneficial for you as well.

Otoplasty can correct conditions such as:

• Large or protruding ears
• Ears out of proportion

There are many other congenital conditions or defects that may affect one’s ears.  Cupped ears, lop ear, or shell ear are all documented conditions that may be improved through surgery.  Otoplasty however, is specifically intended to address ears that significantly protrude out from one’s head.

How Otoplasty Surgery Is Done

Otoplasty is done as an outpatient procedure with about 2 to 3 hours of operating time.  Local anesthesia is common for adults and adolescents, while young children may need general anesthesia to remain still during surgery.  Dr. Ljung makes a precise incision in the back of each ear, where he folds or removes cartilage.  Sutures are then placed to hold the ears in the new position and close the incisions.  The ears will appear more proportional as they reside closer to the patient’s head.

Recovery After Otoplasty

Recovery time with ear surgery is typically 1 week or shorter.  Kids typically return to school after a week and adults can be back to work in about 5 days.  You’ll be sent home with instructions from Dr. Ljung, which should be closely followed to ensure you minimize the chance of complications and obtain satisfying results.  Watch young children closely to be sure they are protecting the ears and do not upset their results.

After surgery, the doctor wraps the patient’s head in a bandage, followed by a light head dressing after a few days.  Stitches may need to be removed during a follow-appointment, which should be scheduled about 1 week after surgery.

Possible Side Effects / Complications

Possible adverse events include but are not limited to infection, formation of scar tissue, or a blood clot on the ear, which may dissolve or it can be extracted.  Ask us about these risks if you are concerned or need more details.

To learn more about Otoplasty Ear Surgery in Wilmington or Jacksonville, contact Azalea Plastic Surgery.