Otoplasty (cosmetic ear surgery, also known as ear pinning) is a common type of ear surgery that helps correct ears that are imbalanced, too large, or protrude from the sides of the head too much. Dr. Matt Goldschmidt at the Cosmetic Surgery Center is an otoplasty surgeon and successfully performed numerous ear pinning surgeries and earlobe reduction surgeries. After your cosmetic ear surgery, you can wear your hair short (if you want!) and hopefully feel more confident and comfortable with your appearance in the mirror and in public.
Am I a Candidate for Cosmetic Ear Surgery?
Dr. Goldschmidt can reshape the ears and make them less noticeable by “pinning” so that they do not stick out too far. Children and adults can face teasing about their ears when they protrude too much. This can become a significant problem for many individuals, especially boys or men who do not have long hair to help conceal the ears. The protruding ear may result from the poor development of the natural folds of the ear or the overgrowth of other areas of the ear. Otoplasty surgery recreates these folds and reduces the protrusion of the ear from the scalp.
If you think that you may be a candidate for otoplasty, set up your consultation today so that Dr. Goldschmidt can evaluate your condition and see if ear surgery is right for you.
Ideal candidates are people in good general health who have realistic expectations for their results.
How Is Otoplasty Performed?
The procedure is relatively short and performed in an outpatient surgical center. Patients can have the procedure with local or general anesthesia. Once the patient is marked, Dr. Goldschmidt makes incisions behind the ear, and uses permanent sutures to help reshape the ear. Dr. Goldschmidt may need to remove some cartilage so that he can make the ear protrude less. A head wrap dressing is then placed to help stabilize the surgical repair of the ears. You will wear this bandage for approximately seven days after surgery. Then, you can wear a headband for the following four weeks.
What Can I Expect for My Cosmetic Ear Surgery Recovery?
Patients generally do not experience significant pain but will need pain medicine after surgery for the first few days of their otoplasty recovery. Bruising and swelling are common during the week or two after surgery, though these side effects will dissipate. Dr. Goldschmidt usually sees patients the following day after the procedure to ensure the healing phase is perfect, and that they can expect amazing results!
What Will My Otoplasty Results Look Like?
After your otoplasty surgery, you will experience swelling, most of which will lessen significantly over the first one to two weeks. However, it is not until after two or three months that the swelling will completely subside and you can see your final results.
Once your results finalize, you can expect more aesthetically pleasing ears better proportioned to match your face and features. You can expect to have increased confidence in your appearance so that you no longer have to worry about what other people might think or say about your ears.
Additionally, your otoplasty results are considered permanent.
What Are Some Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Ear Surgery?
What is the best age to undergo otoplasty?
Otoplasty is one of the few cosmetic surgeries that plastic surgeons can perform on children. Otoplasty is appropriate as soon as the patient’s ears are fully grown, which typically occurs around the age of five. While children do not need to undergo otoplasty, it is often beneficial. The earlier a patient receives the surgery, the easier it is to recover, and the less chance there is for the patient to experience ridicule. Most otoplasty patients turn to ear reshaping or earlobe reduction because they experienced bullying or taunting. This treatment allows patients of all ages to feel more comfortable and confident in their ears.
How long does ear surgery take?
Ear surgery usually takes under two hours. Occasionally, more complicated procedures may take longer.
Will there be any pain during my procedure?
Because Dr. Goldschmidt performs your otoplasty under either local or general anesthesia, you will not feel any pain or discomfort during your surgery. However, you may experience some soreness and discomfort in the surgical area during the week after your procedure. Any pain you feel you can alleviate with medication. However, if the pain persists, it is important that you contact Dr. Goldschmidt immediately.
Can ear surgery cause brain damage?
Otoplasty, especially ear pinning, is a simple and straightforward cosmetic procedure. Permanent side effects are rare. Unfortunately, there is always a chance of complications. These can include infection, blood clots, and hearing loss. No evidence exists that says ear surgery can lead to long-term brain damage.
Are there any risks associated with otoplasty?
Although rare, there are risks associated with otoplasty, as with any plastic surgery procedure. These risks include:
- Scarring
- Asymmetry of the ears
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia
- Overcorrection
- Changes in skin sensitivity and sensation
How bad are the scars after my otoplasty procedure?
Since otoplasty is an invasive surgery, patients can expect scars. However, it is important to understand that Dr. Goldschmidt usually makes incisions for cosmetic ear surgery in the creases behind the ears. This means that the scars remain hidden from view.
Can I combine other procedures with my otoplasty procedure?
Yes! Many patients choose to combine procedures with their otoplasty. Combining procedures cuts down on the overall cost and recovery time, since you are having your procedures and recovering from them all at the same time. Some of the most common procedures combined with otoplasty are:
What does otoplasty cost?
The cost of otoplasty varies depending on the geographical location, the techniques used, and the extent of the procedure. Additional cost factors include anesthesia, facility fees, surgeon’s fees, and post-surgical dressings.
For more information about Cosmetic Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Cleveland, OH or to schedule your Cosmetic Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Cleveland, OH consultation with Dr. Matt Goldschmidt, please call (216) 350-3175.