Otoplasty Beverly Hills CA – Ear Reshaping Plastic Surgery
Description
Ear pinning, or otoplasty, is a surgical procedure to correct a prominent ear deformity. This is an ear deformity where the ears stick out more than typical. Prominent ears can be a major source of embarrassment or teasing in school aged children. Surgery is usually performed after about the age of 8 years old, because children don’t seem to notice the problem earlier than that. The ear has typically achieved full adult growth by this age. We also have patients that never sought treatment as children, but desire correction as adults. Otoplasty restores self-confidence and brings great satisfaction to our patients in Beverly Hills.
Procedure
Surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure in our Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Center. In some cases, a small incision will be needed on the front of the ear, otherwise, nearly all of the scars are placed behind the ear, so that they are well hidden, and others will not be able to tell that you had surgery. A small amount of skin is removed from this area in the back of the ear. The ear cartilage is reshaped by scoring and placing permanent sutures in the cartilage, and possibly by removing some cartilage, depending on the extent of the deformity.
Recovery
You will need to wear a head dressing for about a week. Afterwards, you will need to wear a headband, or sweatband, at night, to maintain the results. The ears will stay slightly red for several months after surgery and will be somewhat more sensitive to changes in temperature. As with any surgery, there are some risks involved; these risks include bleeding, infection, ear asymmetry, and recurrence of the prominence due to suture failure. Overall, otoplasty ear pinning is a well tolerated procedure in Los Angeles.
Ear Pinning (Otoplasty) FAQS
What is the difference between ear pinning and otoplasty?
Ear pinning is a type of otoplasty specifically aimed at setting prominent ears closer to the head. Otoplasty is a broader term that includes various ear surgeries to correct deformities or improve ear appearance.
How painful is ear pinning?
Ear pinning surgery is generally well-tolerated, with patients experiencing mild discomfort, swelling, and tightness around the ears. Pain is manageable with medication and subsides within a few days.
How long does ear pinning last?
Ear pinning results are permanent, though the ears may slightly shift over time due to the natural aging process.
Does ear pinning leave scars?
Yes, but the scars from ear pinning are small and typically hidden behind the ears, making them minimally noticeable. With time, the scars fade and blend with the surrounding skin.
Does ear pinning affect hearing?
No, ear pinning does not affect hearing. The surgery only alters the position of the outer ear, which does not interfere with the function of the inner ear responsible for hearing.
Can I pin my ears back without surgery?
Non-surgical options like ear splints are only effective for infants with soft cartilage. For older children and adults, surgery is the only reliable way to correct prominent ears.
Can I touch my ears after otoplasty?
You should avoid touching or rubbing your ears for several weeks after otoplasty to ensure proper healing. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions to follow.
Can ears stick out again after otoplasty?
In rare cases, ears can revert to their previous position after otoplasty. However, this is uncommon if the procedure is performed correctly, and patients follow post-operative care instructions.
How do you fix uneven ears naturally?
There are no reliable natural methods for fixing uneven ears. Surgery (otoplasty) is the most effective solution for correcting ear asymmetry.
Is otoplasty permanent?
Yes, otoplasty provides permanent results, as the ear cartilage is reshaped and set into a new position that should last a lifetime.
