Do You Wish Your Ears Looked Different?

By Susan K Buenaventura, MS, MD

The Sendi Center for Cosmetic Surgery

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Do You Wish Your Ears Looked Different?

Many adults and children feel self-conscious due to having ears that protrude or are too large. This condition is referred to as prominent ears. It can be much more than an appearance issue when it affects self-esteem and confidence. This can be corrected with a procedure called Otoplasty. The most common reason people seek consultation for otoplasty is because their ears stick out. This is usually evident at birth or in childhood. New born babies' ears can often be molded with tape and splints with correction of prominent ears if it is treated within the first ten days of life. As this is rarely done, the condition of prominent ears tends to persist into childhood and adulthood. It can be a source of teasing for school age children.

Otoplasty is best performed when the child is able to follow instructions and care for the ears properly, usually not before age six. For adults, it can be done at any age. It involves wearing a headband to support and protect the ears for about a month after surgery. Very little discomfort is involved but it is important to take it easy to avoid any complications such as bleeding or infection. Antibiotics are usually taken for about a week after surgery.

The surgery takes about two hours and is performed while the patient is under anesthesia. An incision is made behind the ear to hide the scar, and the skin is lifted off of the cartilage behind the ear. The cartilage is then folded backwards till the ear is in the proper position and secured there with an internal suture. The cartilage in the front of the ear is also sometimes scored or sanded, to allow the ear to bend back more easily and maintain its position. After surgery, the patient is in a soft cushioned wrap to protect the ears. This is changed in a few days and then the patient will wear a soft headband to keep the ears in position.

This is a life changing type surgery, resulting in more confidence and higher self-esteem. Risks include bleeding or infection which are unlikely if the patient is compliant with the surgeon's instructions. If you are considering otoplasty, contact a board certified plastic surgeon through the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to discuss your options.