Plastic surgery of the ear is performed
to correct the
position of ears that protrude too much from the sides
of the head. This protrusion can make the ears appear
disproportionately large. Surgery is performed to rotate
and fix the ears closer to the side of the head thus making
the ears less noticeable. In addition, there is often
an absence of one of the natural folds of the ear which
can also be corrected at the same time, thus restoring
the ear’s natural contours.
The surgery is most often performed on children,
usually after the age of 5. Many adults also suffer with
this same problem and can benefit from the surgery.
Surgery is done under general anesthesia in children and
twilight anesthesia in adults. The procedure takes about
2 hours to complete and most patients are back to normal
activities (except sports) after about one week.
Good candidates for this surgery are those
who have
protruding ears and are in good health. In children it
is important that the child is mature enough to understand
what is being done and that a temporary dressing will
need to be worn.
Each case of ear surgery is highly individualized
and for
that reason it is best to consult with a board certified
plastic surgery regarding your problem. Dr. Barber and
his staff will be happy to assist you should you seek
care
for protruding ears.
