Otoplasty

Otoplasty is a surgery to change the shape, position or size of the ears. This surgery may be used in a number of situations. For example, some people choose to have otoplasty because they are bothered by how far their ears stick out. Others might get this surgery if one or both ears have changed shape due to an injury. Otoplasty also may be used if the ears are a different shape because of a birth defect.

You might think about getting otoplasty if: Your ear or ears stick out too far from your head. Your ears are large compared with your head. You're not happy with the results from a past ear surgery. Often, otoplasty is done on both ears to help give the ears a balanced look. This concept of balance is called symmetry. Otoplasty doesn't change where on your head the ears are located. It also doesn't change your ability to hear.

As with any surgery, otoplasty has risks. These risks include bleeding, blood clots and infection. It's also possible to have a reaction to medicines called anesthetics that prevent pain during surgery. Other risks of otoplasty include: Scarring. Scars from the incisions won't go away after otoplasty. But they'll likely be hidden behind your ears or within the creases of your ears. Ears that don't look balanced in placement. This is called asymmetry. It could happen due to changes during the healing process. Also, otoplasty might not fix asymmetry that was present before surgery. Changes in feeling. Changing the position of your ears can affect how the skin feels in those areas. This effect often goes away, but rarely it is lasting. Ears look "pinned back" after surgery. This is known as an overcorrection.

You'll talk to a plastic surgeon about otoplasty. During your first visit, your plastic surgeon likely will: Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past medical conditions, especially any ear infections. You also may be asked about medicines you take or have taken recently. Tell your surgery team about any surgeries you've had in the past. Do a physical exam. Your surgeon checks your ears, including their placement, size, shape and symmetry. This helps determine your treatment options. Pictures of your ears may be taken for your medical record. Discuss your goals. You likely will be asked why you want otoplasty and what results you expect. Talk with you about the risks of surgery. Make sure you understand the risks of otoplasty before you decide to move forward with surgery. If you and your plastic surgeon decide that otoplasty is right for you, you then take steps to prepare for surgery.