Otoplasty / Ear Pinning
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What is an Otoplasty?
An Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that changes the shape, position, or size of the ears. It can correct defects of the ear that have been present from birth, or those resulting from injury or trauma. It is typically used to treat disproportionately large or protruding ears and usually involves both ears to keep them symmetrical. This procedure is performed on both adults and children.
Who is a candidate for an Otoplasty?
To qualify for otoplasty, an adult or child should be healthy, and not suffer from any condition that might impede healing. Children should be at least five years old, at which time their ears have reached adequate size and maturity. There are a variety of surgical techniques which can be used during otoplasty. Your or your child’s surgery will be tailored to the unique anatomical requirements of each ear.
What to expect from an Otoplasty procedure:
Either local or general anesthesia will be given during your otoplasty procedure, depending on the complexity of the surgery and Dr. Gardner’s recommendation. The procedure can be performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility. The procedure takes about two to three hours on average. Incisions are typically made on the back of the ears or within the inner creases where scars will be less visible; your surgeon then removes excess cartilage and skin before folding the cartilage into position and securing it with stitches. Care is taken to avoid overcorrection.
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Post Operative:
Following surgery, your ears will be covered with bandages for up to a few days. When the bandage is first changed, the ears may be red and swollen. A lighter dressing will then be applied continuously for a full week. There will be some pain and discomfort, which can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medication at Dr. Gardner’s discretion. You’ll be advised to sleep on your back and keep pressure off your ears. When the continuous bandages come off, it is usually recommended you wear a loose headband at night for a few weeks to protect your ears when you roll over in bed. Otoplasty offers immediate results in most cases.
What are the risks?
An Otoplasty is a common and safe procedure, but there are risks inherent with any surgery. These include infection, bleeding, pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, asymmetry, over or under-correction, recurrent delayed protrusion, and skin contour irregularities.
Call Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery at (435) 628-1704 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
How Much Does Otoplasty Cost?
Otoplasty is fully customized to address the unique aesthetic goals of each patient. The cost of the surgery depends on the degree of correction required and the overall complexity of the surgery. During your consultation, we will discuss your customized surgical plan and the cost associated with it. For your convenience, we also provided financing options so that you can take advantage of affordable payments.
Contact Our Office
If you’re interested in learning more about Otoplasty, call Gardner Facial Plastic Surgery in St. George, UT at (435) 628-1704 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
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