Otoplasty Ear Pinning Surgery Overview

Ear pinning surgery, clinically called otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the shape, size, and appearance of ears to bring them in harmony with the rest of the facial features. Otoplasty procedure may be performed by a cosmetic surgeon on children as well as adults with equally effective outcomes. Any child or adult who has attained full growth of the ear, and is bothered by the unsightly or protruding shape of the ears, may be a good candidate for otoplasty.

It is important to choose a trained and experienced surgeon who has the necessary expertise in facial surgery procedures and a close understanding of the facial anatomy. Dr. Landon McLain is a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon as well as a board certified cosmetic surgeon providing otoplasty and other facial procedures. Dr. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Alabama, and surrounding communities.

Who is a Suitable Candidate?

Individuals with flapping ears or oversized ears on one or both sides of the face can benefit from otoplasty, and achieve effective and permanent results. Children with poorly shaped ears can make good candidates for this procedure as long as they meet the following conditions:

• The child is in suitable health, and shows no signs of an untreated ear infection.
• The age of the child is five years or above, and the ear cartilage has achieved stability.
• The child is able to understand the advice of the cosmetic surgeon and cooperate for a successful procedure.

Teens and adults can also go for otoplasty if they feel the need. Board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. McLain provides otoplasty surgery to patients in Huntsville, Alabama, and nearby locations.

Procedure

Otoplasty procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Depending on the case, the surgeon may perform it with the patient under general anesthesia or IV sedation. If the ears are excessively protruding, the surgeon may enhance or build the anti-helical fold within the rim of the ear. The surgeon will also reduce the enlarged conchal cavity, which is the deepest external ear concavity at the same time.

Incisions will be placed discreetly behind the ears to keep the scarring minimally visible. In some cases, the incision may be made on the front side, but within the ear folds to ensure minimal visibility of scars. The surgeon will secure the newly shaped cartilage firmly in its position with internal sutures.

Once the procedure is completed, the surgeon will close the incisions carefully with external sutures. When the procedure is performed by a skilled and highly trained surgeon, the results of otoplasty can be very natural looking. In case of otoplasty, the results will typically last for a lifetime.

Recovery

Most patients will need about five to seven days for the initial recovery. The surgeon may prescribe pain medications to ensure patient’s comfort during the first week. If the incision area is bandaged, the patient should take care to keep the bandage clean in order to minimize the risk of infection.