Otoplasty (Ear Surgery, Ear Pinning)


Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears.

For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, 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.

If you're considering ear surgery for yourself or your child, this information will give you a basic understanding of the procedure-when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please be sure to ask your doctor if there is anything you don't understand about the procedure.

ALL SURGERY CARRIES SOME UNCERTAINTY AND RISK

When ear surgery is performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

A small percentage of patients may develop a blood clot on the ear. It may dissolve naturally or can be drawn out with a needle.

Occasionally, patients develop an infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue to form. Such infections are usually treated with antibiotics; rarely, surgery may be required to drain the infected area.

Otoplasty (Ear Surgery, Ear Pinning) Recovery:

POSITION:
Elevate your head to decrease the swelling. Do not lie on your sides for 7-10 days after surgery. Sleep on a soft pillow or a foam pillow. If you wear glasses, modify the temple pieces of the glasses to avoid putting pressure on your ears.

DRESSINGS:
Do not remove the dressings. Your surgeon or a nurse will do this 3-5 days after surgery. Once the dressings are removed, avoid pulling on the stitches or bending the ear forward.

ACTIVITIES:
Wear a headband over the ears for 6-8 weeks after surgery when sleeping or during sports activities and whenever possible. The greater amount of time you wear the headband may ensure a better result.

OINTMENT:
If there is crusting along the suture lines behind the ears, apply antibiotic ointment (Polysporin or Bacitracin) after cleansing with soap and water.

SPECIFIC “AS YOU HEAL” INFORMATION

COLD WEATHER:
Protect your ears from cold temperatures. Because of temporary numbness, you may not feel extremes of temperature. Tingling, burning, and "shooting pain" sensations may occur as the superficial nerves regenerate.

WARM WEATHER:
For 3-6 months after your surgery, your ears will turn pink and may swell in hot weather.

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