Ear Surgery in Westchester, NY
If you or your child have protruding, uneven ears that stick out, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance or concerned about what your child’s ears may do to their self-esteem. Cosmetic ear surgery, also known as ear pinning or otoplasty, is a surgical procedure that repositions protruding ears closer to the head or resizes overly large ears.
Am I a Candidate for Ear Surgery?
As with all types of cosmetic surgery, ear pinning candidates should be healthy and have no medical conditions that can impact their ability to heal.
Ear surgery is one of the few cosmetic surgeries that can be safely performed on children, and all patients should fully understand the outcomes and risks of the procedure, regardless of age. Candidates for ear surgery should have fully developed ears, which usually occurs around the age of five or six.
How Is Ear Surgery Performed?
Ear surgery is performed on an outpatient basis using general anesthesia, although a local anesthetic combined with a mild sedative may be an option. The specific surgical technique used varies depending on the needs of the patient and the preferences of the cosmetic surgeon.
For many patients, a small incision will be made behind the ear where the ear connects to the head. If the patient wishes to reduce the overall size of their ears or balance asymmetrical ears, excess ear cartilage and tissue may be removed to create a smaller, more proportionate shape.
Stitches can be used to pin the ear cartilage to the head, ensuring that it will heal into the desired position.
What Is Ear Surgery Recovery Like?
Following ear surgery at our Westchester, New York, surgical facility, patients should expect to stay home from work or school for about one week. Any post-surgical discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
While bed rest is not needed or recommended, patients should minimize their movements and refrain from activities that could strain the sutures and interfere with healing. The surgical site should be kept clean and dry, and patients may need to refrain from their usual hair care routine for a short period.
What Results Can I Expect From Ear Surgery?
Ear surgery is exceptionally safe and effective, and the vast majority of patients are thrilled with the outcome. There may be slight scarring at the surgical site; however, any scarring is completely concealed behind the ear.
If otoplasty is performed before the patient reaches adulthood, there is a slight chance that revision surgery may be needed at some point to correct natural changes in the ear shape and orientation. Revisions are rarely required for adult ear surgery patients.
Adult ear surgery patients may choose to combine their ear surgery with an additional facial rejuvenation procedure, such as facelift surgery.
Interested in Ear Surgery in Westchester, NY?
To learn more about how ear surgery can help you feel confident in your appearance, contact us at our Westchester, New York, office at (646) 559-2854 to book your consultation.
