Otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning, stands as a minor surgical procedure aimed at addressing ears that exhibit asymmetry, misshapen contours, or excessive protrusion from the head. An aesthetically pleasing ear typically boasts a small conchal bowl (lower portion) and a well-defined antihelical fold (upper fold) and pleasing symmetry. Conversely, ears that protrude excessively often feature an overdeveloped bowl, an underdeveloped upper fold or both. Beyond addressing ear protrusion and contour irregularities, otoplasty can also address additional concerns such as outer fold hooding, prominence of Darwin’s tubercle, oversized earlobes or Stahl’s ear anomalies, offering comprehensive facial enhancement.
Addressing Ear Protrusion
Otoplasty, or ear pinning, offers a solution to both underdeveloped antihelical folds and enlarged conchal bowls. This surgical intervention involves the removal of excess cartilage from the lower portion of the ear to enhance natural folds in the upper segment or vice versa. The procedure entails the meticulous removal of a small amount of skin from behind the ear, along with slender slices of cartilage from the ear’s bowl, coupled with sutures to refine the underdeveloped fold in the upper third of the ear.
The outcomes of otoplasty are enduring and immediate, providing patients with permanent improvement. Most individuals witness the final positioning and contouring of their ears within two to three weeks post-surgery, sustaining the pleasing results permanently. Although exceedingly rare, instances of trauma following surgery necessitating revision procedures have been observed. Dr. Weber advises patients to avoid undue stress or trauma to the ears post-surgery, advocating for normal activities such as exercise and sports, while cautioning against activities that may risk ear trauma.
Incision Placement and Healing
Otoplasty entails a single incision discreetly positioned behind the ear, which typically heals seamlessly and remains inconspicuous. Moreover, the natural folds and contours of the ear, sculpted during surgery, further obscure the well-healed incision, ensuring a harmonious aesthetic outcome.
In most cases, dissolving sutures are utilized behind the ears, obviating the need for suture removal. These sutures typically fall out within seven to ten days, with moisturizing aiding in expediting the process.
Otoplasty can often be performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation for pediatric patients aged five and above, while older patients may undergo the procedure comfortably in-office. However, adult otoplasty under general anesthesia at an accredited facility is also an option, ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Comparative Options and Risks
While an incisionless otoplasty method exists for certain cases, traditional otoplasty techniques offer more durable and comprehensive results, particularly for addressing middle and lower ear protrusions. The risks associated with otoplasty, such as infection or hematoma, are exceedingly rare and manageable under the expert care of Dr. Weber.
Patients are advised to wear a small compression garment post-surgery to minimize swelling and bruising, typically requiring five days of downtime. Following this period, most individuals can resume all normal activities, including vigorous exercise, contributing to a swift and comfortable recovery process.
Choosing Dr. Weber For Otoplasty
Dr. Stephen Weber is a world-renowned, double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon in Denver, Colorado. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to natural outcomes, patients from Denver and beyond trust Weber Facial Plastic Surgery for exceptional surgical care and transformative results. Schedule a consultation today to start your otoplasty journey!