Otoplasty is the surgical or non-surgical reshaping of the ears. Examples of otoplasty range from pinning back the ears in a simple procedure to reconstructing prominent or malformed ears with a more complicated procedure.
While some patients seek otoplasty after an accident or injury, others seek cosmetic ear surgery due to congential ear issues, such as poor ear angle, the overdevelopment of ear cartilage, or the underdevelopment of ear cartilage. Cosmetic ear issues can lead to low self-esteem and damaged confidence in both school-aged children and adults, and patients who undergo otoplasty often report improvements in their self-image following the procedure.
The optimal time to seek otoplasty is after a child’s ears have developed completely (normally around the age of five) but before the cartilage hardens and becomes less pliable. While otoplasty is considered a safe procedure that is often successful, complications including bleeding, infection, recurrence, and overcorrection are possible. Recovery is often fast, though patients are asked to wear protective wraps for several weeks following the procedure. Otoplasty does not improve or harm a patient’s ability to hear.
Would you like to learn more about otoplasty, either for yourself or for a loved one?
Call Dr. Kole today at 215-315-7655 to schedule a consultation.
