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Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to permanently alter the shape of the ears, often to improve the appearance of protruding or asymmetric ears. Good candidates for otoplasty include healthy individuals whose ears are asymmetric or protruding. Otoplasty is often performed on children. In these cases, the ideal age is between four and five years of age as the ears are mature in size and, more importantly, the child can be spared the social ridicule often associated with having large or protruding ears.
Dr. Moynihan performs otoplasty at his office or at an outpatient surgical center. The procedure takes one to two hours to complete and can be performed with local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or sedation. A small incision is placed in the crease behind the ear, resulting in a well-concealed, imperceptible scar. Once the incision is made, permanent sutures are used to alter the shape of the ear and create a more pleasing appearance.
The recovery after otoplasty takes three to seven days. Some swelling, redness, numbness, throbbing or aching may occur. Any discomfort that patients experience can be controlled with medication. Bandages applied after surgery are usually removed within a few days and replaced with a lighter dressing similar to a headband. Stitches need not be removed as the sutures used are dissolving and are placed under the skin. Patients can return to work or school within three to seven days. Light exercise can be resumed in about one week and more strenuous exercise after about two weeks
Q - What is otoplasty?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure which alters the shape of the ears and can improve the appearance of asymmetric or protruding ears.
Q - Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
Healthy individuals with asymmetric or protruding ears may be good candidates for otoplasty. The procedure may be performed on children which can help to spare them the social ridicule that is often associated with large or protruding ears. The ideal age in young patients is four or five as the ears are mature in size at that point.
Q - Are there any age restrictions for undergoing otoplasty?
Otoplasty may be performed on children as young as four or five years of age.
Q - What happens during the otoplasty consultation?
During the consultation, your ears will be examined, your medical history taken, and your goals discussed. A technique will be recommended and all aspect explained including the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.
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Rhinoplasty
