Ear Pinning / Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a procedure that reshapes or repositions the ears so they exhibit a better proportion. When the ears significantly protrude away from the head, it can distract from an otherwise normal appearance.
Otoplasty is commonly performed on children, but adults can benefit as well. Once the ears have fully developed, surgery can be done to make the ears appear less prominent.
The Surgery
Ear pinning surgery is an outpatient procedure that requires about 2 hours of operating time. For adults, otoplasty is done under local anesthesia. On children, general anesthesia is often recommended so the patient sleeps through the operation. An incision is made behind the ear, where the cartilage is sculpted or removed. Sutures are then placed to close the incisions and hold the ears in place.
After Ear Surgery
The ears will exhibit a normal and proportional appearance after surgery. Recovery time is about 1 week, when the ears will be wrapped in a bandage. You will need to protect the ears and possibly modify sleeping arrangements to ensure healing is not disrupted. Dr. Leff can provide specific instructions regarding these post-operative steps.
Contact Overlake Plastic Surgeons in Bellevue to learn more about ear pinning surgery / Otoplasty.
