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Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
Ear surgery, known as otoplasty, is performed to improve the appearance of ears that are overly large or that stick out too far from the head. This procedure is most often performed on children ages six to fourteen, although adults in Staten Island may also undergo ear surgery. During ear surgery, skin or cartilage may be trimmed to make the ears smaller in size. Ears that stick out too far can also be repositioned closer to the head.
Is Ear Surgery Right for Me?
Ear surgery is an option for patients who are self-conscious about the proportions or size of their ears. Unlike most other plastic surgery procedures, ear surgery is routinely performed on children as young as five years old, although many adults have also benefited from surgery to reduce prominent ears. Many parents choose otoplasty for their young children to avoid the possibility of teasing about large ears. Adults and children in good overall health with relatively large or disproportionate ears may undergo this surgical procedure.
The purpose of otoplasty is cosmetic in nature. Though it is performed on the ears, otoplasty does not affect hearing abilities. Those undergoing any plastic surgery procedure must have realistic expectations about the results. Otoplasty before after pictures can give Staten Island patients a good idea of what to expect with ear surgery.
Procedure Details
Performing ear surgery typically takes less than two hours, or about 45 minutes for each ear. While it can be performed with local anesthesia, Staten Island surgeons often recommend general anesthesia for young children. During this procedure, an incision behind the ear or in the natural creases of the ear allow the surgeon to reshape the cartilage which comprises the ear structure. If the size of the earlobes or overall ear is to be reduced, excess skin or cartilage may be removed. Internal sutures will be used in order to permanently set the ear closer to the head, so that they do not stick out as far. Once all repositioning and reshaping is complete, the incisions will be closed with small stitches.
Recovery After Ear Surgery
Staten Island ear surgery patients will wear a surgical dressing over the ears for several days to support the ears in their new position. During this recovery period, a soft headband may be worn to protect the ears overnight, although some patients in Staten Island still report difficulty sleeping, especially if they customarily sleep on their sides. The ears may be swollen and sore for about a week. Most patients who undergo ear surgery in Staten Island, NY return to work or school in a week or less, and strenuous activities such as sports within two weeks. |
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Dr. John W. Decorato offers plastic and reconstructive surgery to patients across New York & New Jersey including: Staten Island & Brooklyn New York. Elizabeth, Newark, Jersey City, Perth Amboy New Jersey. Contact Dr. John W. Decorato's office today to schedule your FREE Ear Surgery Consultation! |
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