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Prominent ears can be a lifetime embarrassment for people. It usually starts in childhood. Kids with prominent large ears or ears which stick out far from the side of the head can suffer endless taunting and name-calling from their peers which can result in poor self-esteem and low self-confidence.

This self-confidence can even carry on into adulthood if the issue is not resolved. It is not uncommon for adults who have always felt self-conscious about their ears to come in for Otoplasty surgery. They usually have spent most of their lives hiding their ears with their hair. They often give a history of never going swimming in public because of the possibility of having their prominent ears be noticed.

What Is Ear Surgery?

Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a procedure in which the cartilage is altered and/or the ears are pinned back closer to the side of the head. All incisions are carefully placed by Dr. Matthew Romans or Dr. Jeremy Silk in hidden areas, usually behind the ear.

Ideal Candidates for Otoplasty

People who want to reduce the prominence of their ears are good candidates for otoplasty. Birth defects and injuries can also affect the function and appearance of the ears. Those affected with such deformities may also undergo ear surgery to correct or improve the physiology of the ear.

If you have previously undergone ear surgery and are not satisfied with the results, you may undergo otoplasty again.

Your Ear Surgery Consultation

Prior to surgery, you will need to come in for a consultation with your surgeon. He will perform a physical examination of your ear region. This helps determine the techniques needed for your desired outcome. You and your surgeon will also discuss your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions.

Ear Surgery Procedure

The ear surgery procedure starts with the administration of anesthesia. The choices are general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation. This choice will be made based on the type and extent of work needed to be done.

Incisions are usually made behind the ear. Cartilage will be folded with sutures and excess skin will be removed as needed. Sometimes cartilage will be removed in the bowl of the ear, if needed.

Stitches will then be used to close the incisions securely. Bandages will be wrapped around your ear to help with protecting the ears after surgery. The whole procedure takes about two hours.

Healing and Recovery

In the days after surgery, you might experience itching and discomfort. Medications may be given by Dr. Romans or Dr. Silk to help ease these temporary issues. Avoid sleeping on your side in order to prevent applying pressure on your newly operated ears. Wear a hat or headband to protect the ears from trauma for the first few weeks after surgery.

Ear Surgery Cost

The total cost of otoplasty surgery varies on a patient-to-patient basis. Sometimes insurance will cover this procedure, especially in children who are experiencing severe psycho-social problems from the condition. Contact our office to see if you or your child may be a good candidate for Otoplasty.

To see the kind of results Otoplasty is capable of achieving, view our Before and After Otoplasty photo gallery by clicking on the button below.