Some children are born with prominent, protruding ears which tend to be a source of embarrassment. An otoplasty is a procedure performed to help hold the ears back so that they are less prominent.

The operation involves incisions behind the ear which would allow us to score the cartilage in front, allowing the ear to bend back along the natural ear fold, We also place sutures to help hold the ear in that position. Some patients may also need an insetting of the conchal bowl in order to bring the entire ear closer to the skull. Most children require general anesthesia. Adults, however, can easily tolerate local anesthetic so that they can help determine the amount of tightening they wish to have while on the operating room table. Otoplasty may be performed on children as young as four years of age.

Postoperatively, you will wear a turban dressing that encompasses the entire head. Depending on the severity of the defect, in the second week, some can wear a tight headband only to cover and hold the ears in place. Of course, not getting the turban dressing wet and keeping it in place is important.