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Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)
San Francisco - Oakland - Santa Rosa - Marin
Otoplasty or ear pinning is a very common reconstructive technique that is used for people who have protruding ears. Protruding ears is a genetic deformity and ranges in severity. Otoplasty is a form of ear surgery performed to set disproportionately large or prominent ears closer to the head. The size of the ear has reached 85% of its growth by the age of three, therefore, it is best for children to wait until just before school age to have the ears repaired. This procedure is often done in adults as well.
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Indications Men, women and children are candidates for otoplasty. The ear is 85% fully developed by age three. For children it is typical to undergo otoplasty before attending their first day of school. This tends to avoid embarrassment and difficulty at school. When disfigurement is severe, it is recommended that a child be operated on early to avoid possible emotional stress when he or she enters school. Adults can have this procedure done at any age. |
Before Surgery At the initial consultation, Dr. Delgado will ask you to discuss you or your child’s concerns, concerning your appearance. The patient; or case of a child, the patient’s family, should discuss candidly expectations about looking and feeling better after surgery, while keeping in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection. Dr. Delgado will discuss the variables that may influence the decision involved in otoplasty.
Anesthesia In vast majority of otoplasties, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. If this is a young child, then general anesthesia will be required. Dr. Delgado and anesthesiologist with assist in making the best decision for you.
Operative Procedure Otoplasty typically is performed to create or restore the centerfold or disproportionately large or prominent ears. The extent of the procedure depends on what changes are desired. There are several possible surgical approaches to otoplasty. Using a commonly employed technique, the surgeon makes incisions in the back of the ear and removes skin to expose ear cartilage. The cartilage shape is altered by a combination of “scoring” into the cartilage and permanent sutures being placed. The incisions are closed with sutures. By creating a more pronounced fold in the central portion of the ear, the surgeon brings the ear closer to the head.
Post Operative The first few hours after surgery are spent in the recovery room. When you are completely alert, you will be able to go home with someone to assist you. We advise sleeping with the back and the head elevated at 45-60 degrees for five to seven days to reduce swelling. The bulky head dressing that is placed at the time of surgery can be removed the following day and the hair and face can be washed. A headband is replaced. There is some soreness and discomfort that is easily controlled by medications. Most of the swelling is resolved in seven to ten days, as long as the proper care is taken. The bruising primarily resolves in ten to fourteen days. Most patients return to work or social activities after two weeks. Strenuous physical exercise is avoided for four to six weeks following otoplasty.
Risks and Complications Thousands of otoplasties are performed successfully each year. Nonetheless, you should be aware of potential risks of surgery and specific complications associated with this operation. Post operative complications such as infection, bleeding, and risk of anesthesia are very uncommon. Occasionally, a setback ear may protrude again, necessitating a second operation. Following the instructions extremely carefully can minimize risk of complications. The objective of otoplasty is a more natural and better-positioned ear. Since the incisions are made in the back of the ears, faint scars should be concealed in the creases.