Otoplasty

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, commonly known as ear surgery or ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the ears to improve their appearance, position, or proportion relative to the face. Prominent or protruding ears, where the ears stick out more than about 2 centimeters from the side of the head, are typically caused by an underdeveloped antihelical fold (the curved ridge inside the ear) or an oversized concha (the bowl-shaped part of the outer ear). These are inherited anatomical variations that can cause significant self-consciousness, particularly in children who may face teasing. Otoplasty corrects these issues by reshaping the cartilage through carefully concealed incisions behind the ear. The procedure can also address other ear concerns including overly large ears (macrotia), asymmetrical ears, "lop ear" (where the tip folds down), "cupped ear" (a very small ear), or "shell ear" (missing the outer curve). Dr. Kurtzman has extensive experience performing otoplasty on both children and adults, understanding that ear appearance significantly impacts self-confidence. The procedure is one of the few cosmetic surgeries routinely performed on children, as the ears reach approximately 90% of adult size by age 5-6. Results are permanent, and the psychological benefits, especially for children, can be profound.

Ideal Candidates

Otoplasty can benefit children, teenagers, and adults who have concerns about the appearance of their ears. During consultation, we evaluate ear anatomy, discuss goals, and determine the optimal approach:

• Children age 5 or older whose ears are nearly fully developed (approximately 90% of adult size) and who express concern about their ear appearance
• Adults of any age with protruding, oversized, or misshapen ears who have always been self-conscious about their appearance
• Individuals with significant ear asymmetry where one ear protrudes more than the other or differs in shape
• Those who avoid certain hairstyles or constantly try to hide their ears due to self-consciousness
• Patients with "lop ear," "cupped ear," "shell ear," or other congenital ear shape variations
• Anyone who has experienced injury or trauma that altered their ear shape and desires reconstruction
• Patients in good overall health without untreated ear infections or conditions that impair healing
• Children who are emotionally ready and express their own desire for the procedure (rather than being pressured by parents)

The Procedure

Otoplasty is adapted to address your specific ear anatomy and concerns. The surgery is performed through incisions hidden behind the ear, leaving virtually no visible scarring:

Recovery & Results

Recovery from otoplasty is relatively straightforward. Immediately after surgery: A protective head dressing is worn for the first few days to protect the ears and maintain their new position. Days 3-7: The bulky dressing is replaced with a lighter headband or sports-type headband that should be worn continuously. Week 2: Most patients can return to school or work, though the headband should still be worn at night. Weeks 3-6: Continue wearing the headband at night to protect the ears during sleep when unconscious movements could stress the repair. Children should avoid contact sports for 6 weeks. Discomfort is typically mild and well-controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. Swelling and bruising resolve within 1-2 weeks. The ears may feel stiff or numb initially, but normal sensation returns over several weeks.

Results are permanent once healing is complete at approximately 6 weeks. The ears maintain their new position indefinitely, as the cartilage has been permanently reshaped. The improvement in appearance and self-confidence is typically dramatic, particularly for children who have been teased about their ears. Most patients wish they had done it sooner.