Procedure

Otoplasty is performed to create or restore the centerfold to large or prominent ears. The extent of the procedure depends on what changes are desired and what your surgeon deems to be appropriate for you. The common employed technique your surgeon may use is to make an incision in the back of the ear and remove skin to expose your ears cartilage. Your surgeon will then use sutures to fold the cartilage in on itself to reshape the ear. In some cases the result may be achieved without sutures, but by weakening the cartilage before doing the folding. Your incisions will then be closed with sutures.

Length of Procedure

This procedure will take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of your surgery. In more complicated cases the time will be longer.

Type of Anesthesia

This procedure can be done under local or general anesthesia, and usually on an outpatient basis.

Side Effects

Immediately after surgery you will have throbbing and aching of the ear, but this can be relieved with medication. You will have mild bruising that will subside within the first week of surgery. Your surgery will leave a faint scar in the back of your ear, which will fade with time.

Risks

Fortunately, significant complications from this procedure are infrequent, and thousands of people undergo this procedure with no complications. However, anyone that is considering this procedure should be aware of the benefits and risks. The potential complications of this surgery are best discussed on a personal basis with your surgeon. Though some complications that may be discussed are the fact that a small percentage of patients may develop a blood clot on the ear, which may dissolve naturally, or have to be drawn out with a needle. You have the risk of developing an infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue to form. Such infections can be treated with antibiotics.

Recovery

Your head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following surgery to promote the best molding and healing of your ears. These bandages will be removed within a few days; a lighter head dressing similar to a headband will replace the bulky bandages. Any activity in which the ear might be bent should be avoided for a month, in some cases you may be advised to wait longer. Children may return to school after seven days, if they are careful when on the playground. Adults may return back to work after seven days and resume most normal activities after a couple of weeks after surgery.


Reading about your prospective procedure is your first step in gathering information. Once you have decided that the procedure is right for you, a personal consultation is available for your convenience with Dr. H.A. Najafi. This will give you a more detailed explanation of your prospective procedure and answer any questions or concerns you have regarding your surgery. Click on contact us to contact a member or our staff, to schedule your consultation today!