Otoplasty (Ear Pinback)

Prominauris (prominent ears) is a condition in which a person's ears excessively protrude away from their head. This creates an unnatural appearance. Unfortunately, this condition often provokes hurtful teasing by other children in the classroom and can have a significant impact on a child's self-esteem. Adults who have prominent ears are often sensitive about their appearance as well, which imparts a negative self-image and impacts their self confidence. Fortunately, prominent ears can be corrected through a procedure called otoplasty (ear shaping). The procedure can be performed at any age after 4, which is early enough to prevent psychological scarring.

Otoplasty is performed to correct prominent ears. The abnormally shaped ear cartilage is resculpted to create a natural appearing ear. Sutures are used to re-enforce the cartilage. Most people go back to their regular activites within a couple of days after the procedure.

Otoplasty before and 3 months after the "ear pinning" procedure

Goals Otoplasty is performed to correct prominent ears by establishing a normal relationship between the head and the ear.

The Procedure Incisions are hidden behind the ear, allowing access to the ear catilage. The cartilage is then re-shaped and enforced with suture. Occasionally, a small amount of cartilage is removed if the ear is over-developed.

Anesthesia The procedure is frequently performed with a general anesthetic in children. In adults, local anesthetic or sedative anesthesia is most frequently used.

Length of Time The procedure averages between one to two hours. It is performed in our state of the art, fully accredited outpatient surgical facility or at the hospital.

After the Procedure Most patients go home comfortably after the procedure. A head bandage is placed to protect the ears, which is removed in a few days.

Recovery Most patients return to a normal routine within 1 week. Children are restricted in gym class and sports for 2 weeks.

Otoplasty can be performed as early as 4 years of age. Surgery should be performed prior to a child entering kindergarten or first grade and late enough where the ear has adequately developed.

Otoplasty incisions are placed behind the ear and are not visible.

Results are permanent and the procedure only has to be performed once.

Otoplasty can be performed on one side only, but this is done only in rare instances. If one side protrudes significantly more then the other, it gives the appearance that only that side is affected. Dr. Steiger performs meticulous measurements to verify the position of both ears. In the majority of cases both ears are affected and need to be repaired to achieve balance.

Vigorous physical activity should be avoided for 1 week after surgery. It is important to avoid aggressive manipulation or trauma to the ear for 6 weeks after surgery. Acitivities which place the ear in jeopardy should be avoided. Patients are asked to where a head band at night for 6 weeks following surgery.

Patients can experience a dull throbbing of the ears for a few days after surgery. This is relieved with a mild pain medication prescribed by our office.