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Otoplasty is referred to as cosmetic ear surgery, which is performed on the outer ear known as the auricle. This surgical procedure is designed to change the size, shape, and the position of the ears. Often otoplasty is done to correct the misshapen ears due to birth defects and injury. Other times, otoplasty is performed to correct protruding ears which can help with self-consciousness. This surgery can be performed on adults and children over the age of 5 years old.
A good candidate for otoplasty is someone that is at age 5 or older which is typically when the ear reaches the majority of adult size. The candidate must be in overall good health without underlying health conditions. A patient with a healthy life-style is an ideal candidate for this type of cosmetic facial plastic surgery.
During your consultation visit we will go over your medical history including any past medical conditions. Dr. Payne, our board certified plastic surgeon, will examine your ears and address any questions you may have during your in person consultation visit and discuss the surgery goals and risks. Dr. Payne will use the best otoplasty techniques to meet your realistic surgical expectations.
Otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure performed in an outpatient hospital setting. This surgery can typically take between 2-4 hours. Cosmetic otoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed with an anesthetic. Ear pinning surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with a sedative or general anesthesia. During this procedure you will have a small incision located on the back of the ears. The ear cartilage will then be reshaped by making small thin cuts in the surface of the cartilage along with permanent sutures to hold the new shape of the ear. Occasionally large ears will be reduced by removing excess cartilage. The earlobes can also be set back by performing special suture techniques in the cartilage and soft tissue of the ear. There are a number of congenital ear deformities or abnormalities that can be treated with an otoplasty. Occasionally, the surgeon will use cartilage grafts to help with the shaping of the ear.
Following your otoplasty procedure, your ears will be covered with dressing bandages. You may experience itchiness, pain, swelling and discomfort right after your surgery. We recommend for you take over the counter pain medication such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Avoid sleeping on your side. We recommend for you wear a button down shirt or loose-fitting shirts. Your bandage and any stitches will be removed during your post-operative visit at our office. Recovery can last anywhere between 1-2 weeks. Avoid any strenuous activity. During the first week after surgery there will be a headwrap to protect the ears. You will then be required to wear a headband for 5 weeks after surgery after the headwrap is removed.
The best method for an incisionless otoplasty is with ear molding. This procedure is typically performed on newborns when the ear cartilage is still soft and moldable. Ear molding cannot be performed on adults or children successfully. Some surgeons will claim to perform incisionless otoplasty in their office using sutures to reshape and hold the cartilage. These techniques are risky for having sutures extruded from the skin and developing infections. This is not a true incisionless otoplasty because a scalpel is used to place the sutures.
Otoplasty cosmetic surgery can recreate your ears to best complement your facial appearance. This can lead to a greater self-esteem and boost your confidence. Often kids or even adults are bullied and teased due to protruding ears, having this surgery can also help a patient feel physically more comfortable with their ears.
Some of the risks are: bleeding, infection, scarring, unnatural looking appearance, asymmetry and reaction to anesthesia. Although you are at a low risk for these complications, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions to minimize your risk of complications.
Most people will have mild pain after ear pinning surgery. The use of over the counter pain medication such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen will control discomfort and pain. If someone is experiencing severe pain, it can be an underlying problem such as infection or hematoma. If you are experiencing severe pain, please call our office immediately.
Yes, if you are not satisfied and unhappy with the way your results from a previous otoplasty surgery, or have experienced a botched otoplasty, a revision otoplasty can be performed to correct any of your concerns. Dr. Payne will offer you the most effective care that you need.
Following your post operative instructions will best prepare you to recover and rest properly. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.
Results typically to last a lifetime when it comes to otoplasty. This procedure will result in permanent changes in your ears. For the best results, we suggest you follow our instructions given to you after the procedure.
Otoplasty is not covered by insurance due to it being considered cosmetic. Typically pricing for an otoplasty outpatient procedure is determined by the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia cost, and facility fees. The cost of the surgeon’s fee can vary depending on your treatment plan. During your consultation visit, you will be given a quote and a breakdown of the cost to prepare for surgery.
Our providers are trained in plastic and reconstructive plastic surgery to treat all ear deformities. Dr. Payne is a member of the American Society Of Plastic Surgeons.
Contact Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic in Houston today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Payne.
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Contact Texas Liposuction Specialty Clinic in Houston today to schedule a consultation for your Liposuction with Dr. Payne.
