Otoplasty - ear pinning surgery for dumbo ears

Protruding ears can be a horrible problem. Children, long the victims of cruel nicknames like “Dumbo” or “Mickey Mouse,” are the most likely candidates for otoplasty, but this surgery can be performed at any age after the ears have reached full size, usually around five to six years of age. Even if the ears are only mildly distorted, the condition can lead to self-consciousness and poor adaptation to school. As soon as the ears reach their full size, otoplasty can be performed, and often the sooner the better.

But otoplasty is not just for children. Adults can benefit from otoplasty surgery. Ear pinning, or otoplasty, is a procedure which helps to make the ears more symmetric, reduce the size of the ears, and decrease the protrusion of the ears.

When considering otoplasty, parents must be confident that they have their child's best interests at heart. In pediatric surgery, a positive attitude toward the surgery is crucial. The patient is going to be naturally scared and reassurance from patients is crucial to allay any fears about the procedure.

Adult candidates for otoplasty should understand that the firmer cartilage of fully developed ears does not provide the same molding capacity as in children. Timing is always an important consideration. Having the procedure at a young age is highly desirable in two respects: the cartilage is extremely pliable, thereby permitting greater ease of shaping; and secondly, the child will experience psychological benefits from the cosmetic improvement.

In adults, otoplasty can be performed using local anesthesia in the office. In children, the procedure is generally done under general anesthesia as it can last for several hours and often patient compliance is an issue. Surgery begins with an incision just behind the ear, in the natural fold where the ear is joined to the head. Depending on the problem that is identified, cartilage and skin may be removed or the ear may be bent backward and sewn with permanent stitches under the skin to hold the new ear shape into the desired position. The incision is then closed and the incision is unable to be seen when healed.

The risks are minimal. There will be a thin white scar behind the ear after healing but because of the location, it will be difficult to see. There is a possibility of bleeding but generally a head wrap is worn as a compression dressing to prevent bleeding. Pain should be minimal and if excess pain is felt, the physician should be notified.

Insurance does not generally cover surgery that is purely for cosmetic reasons. Otoplasty is generally not covered by insurance. As always, it is imperative to speak with a qualified and experienced surgeon to determine the exact risks and procedure to be performed.

For more information about otoplasty, plastic surgery Texas, or cosmetic surgery Texas, visit Dr. Verret on the web at http://innovationsfps.com or call for a consult 972.608.0100.