Otoplasty treats prominent ears, while also brings the ear fin to its natural anatomic position. Lack of harmony in the face makes many children feel uncomfortable due to the size, shape or position of their ears.
The most common problem associated with this procedure is prominent or asymmetrical ears, which are inherited problems. Otoplasty is the procedure for correcting and improving the shape, position or proportions of the ears.
Children with prominent ears get easily teased at in school. As such, considering otoplasty before the age of 5 (that is before going to school) will definitely benefit the appearance, self-esteem and quality of life of children. On the other hand, the procedure can be performed around the age of 8, when ear development nears maturity.
Otoplasty patients usually undergo general anesthesia and after the age of 12, undergo a combination of sedation and analgesia.
In general, incisions are made behind the ears, leaving no visible scars, and the plastic surgeon then folds the cartilage into the proper position and secures it without the need for sutures.
As a general rule, the appropriate otoplasty technique is chosen by your plastic surgeon based on the kind of correction needed.
Otoplasty benefits will be lifelong. The goal of the procedure is to provide a natural result and to not have the ears appear like they are stuck to the sides of the head.