Ear Surgery

Ear pinning, technically known as an otoplasty, is performed to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. The procedure is done primarily on children but surgery on adults is also performed quite frequently.

Patient Assessment

• Ear surgery is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head.
• This operation is usually performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age 4, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure.
• Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.

Intended Result

• Most patients, both young and old, are thrilled with the results of ear surgery. But keep in mind, the goal is improvement, not perfection. Do not expect both ears to match perfectly—perfect symmetry is both unlikely and unnatural in ears.
• If you have discussed the procedure and your expectations with the surgeon, chances are you will be quite pleased with the results.

Procedure

• The surgery generally takes about two to three hours. The surgery can be performed in the outpatient surgery center in our office, with no overnight stay.
• With one of the more common techniques, the surgeon makes a small incision on the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage is then sculpted and bent back towards the head. Non-removable stitches may be used to help maintain the new shape. Occasionally, the surgeon will remove a larger piece of cartilage to provide a more natural-looking fold when the surgery is complete.
• In most cases, ear surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of the ear that will fade with time.

Recovery

• Both adults and children are usually up and around within a few hours of surgery.
• The patient's head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following surgery to promote the best molding and healing.
• There is minimal post-operative pain that is easily controlled by medication.

Other Procedures

• No other procedures are usually done in conjunction with an otoplasty.

Insurance Considerations

• Some insurance carriers will cover otoplasty for functional reasons. Check with your insurance carrier.
• If ear surgery is done for cosmetic reasons, it will not be covered by medical insurance. The patient is therefore responsible for payment of the surgical and related costs.
• More information about payment and financing options.

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