What Ear Abnormalities Can Be Repaired With Otoplasty Surgery?
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If you’re like most people, you may not think twice about how your ears look. For some men, women, and children, however, the appearance of their ears is a constant source of frustration and even embarrassment. To help patients get the natural look and boosted self-confidence they desire, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Anthony E. Brissett and the caring team at Brissett Plastic Surgery are proud to offer a comprehensive range of ear surgeries – including otoplasty – in Houston, TX. Read on for a closer look at who may qualify for ear surgery, how the procedure works, and what life-changing results may be possible for you or your child with otoplasty.
What is an otoplasty?
Otoplasty, sometimes referred to as ear pinning, is a widely popular procedure that aims to reshape or recontour the ears for a more even, natural, proportionate look. Otoplasty may be performed on one or both ears depending on the nature of the patient’s concerns.
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty surgery?
Virtually anyone with concerns about the size, shape, appearance, symmetry, or another feature of their ears may qualify for otoplasty surgery in Houston, TX. Some of the most common reasons for otoplasty include:
- One ear sticks out
- Both ears stick out
- Prominent ears
- Ears are too large
- Ears are too small
- Misshapen ears
- Asymmetric ears
- Ears do not "fit" the head/face
Additionally, patients considering ear pinning or otoplasty should be in good health, nonsmoking, and at least 5 – 6 years of age.
What’s the best age for kids to get ear pinning?
In some cases, mild defects or ear deformities in infants can be addressed with noninvasive measures. After this time, however, otoplasty surgery is typically required to correct misshapen, misaligned, or prominent ears. Generally speaking, children should be at least 5 – 6 years old before undergoing otoplasty surgery. For many parents, this is an ideal age to have their child’s otoplasty performed, as the surgery and healing can be completed before the child begins attending school.
How long is recovery after ear pinning?
Following otoplasty, patients may expect minor tenderness or discomfort, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly. For adults, a dressing will be placed over the ears for 2 – 3 days, while children will need to keep their dressing in place for about 5 – 7 days. During this time, it is critical that patients avoid touching their ears or placing pressure on their ears. Patients should also plan to sleep on their back with their heads slightly elevated. Using a travel neck pillow can be particularly helpful for preventing patients from rolling to their side while sleeping after otoplasty.
On average, patients can expect to return to work, school, and other activities about 1 – 2 weeks after ear surgery, though strenuous physical activity may be off-limits for up to 3 – 6 weeks.
How long does an otoplasty last?
For the majority of patients who have ear surgery performed after the age of five, the results of otoplasty surgery last a lifetime. Minor changes to the appearance of the ears may occur over time as a result of the natural aging process, but these are typically subtle and imperceptible to others. With an experienced Houston, TX otoplasty surgeon and proper aftercare, patients can enjoy their natural new look for years or even decades to come.
With ear pinning in Houston, TX, your self-esteem will soar
Having misaligned or prominent ears can lead to teasing, embarrassment, and a lowered sense of self. Join the many men, women, and children who have chosen otoplasty surgery to address their ear abnormalities and get the much needed confidence boost they deserve. To learn more about the life-changing results that may be possible for you with otoplasty in Houston, call Brissett Plastic Surgery to schedule your one-on-one consultation with acclaimed double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Anthony E. Brissett today.