Ear Surgery
Otoplasty
Otoplasty surgery is aimed at correcting ear deformities (microtia), most commonly treating ears that are very prominent or large. Although there are multiple forms of microtia, the majority are straightforward and the main goal is to correct the excess lateral projection of the ear. The most common age for treating prominent ears is 5 years old.
Procedural Illustrations [Click to enlarge +]
Procedure
This surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, although mature teens and adults may have it done under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. All surgery is done at Dr. Payne’s MediCare and California State Certified Pueblo Nuevo Surgery Center located within his office.
Incisions are placed on the posterior surface (back side) of the ear and the malformed ear cartilage is shaped into its proper configuration and sutured using permanent stitches. A series of shaping stitches is utilized and the shape of the ear is customized on the operating table with the goal of matching the two ears as closely as possible. The skin incision is then closed and a light compressive head dressing is applied.
Results
Children and adults with prominent ears often suffer psychologically. Ears that protrude cannot be hidden, and children may be teased by friends and classmates. This can negatively impact the child’s development and self-esteem and increase shyness. Children's ears are almost adult-sized by age 5 and it is generally recommended that surgery be considered at this age before the child is going to school full-time.
Most clients and their families are quite pleased with the outcome of this relatively simple surgical procedure. Many clients have ears that are not exactly the same prior to surgery, but otoplasty corrects the major problems, making the ears look normal.
The results of otoplasty are generally considered to be permanent. It is possible that more surgery may be needed as time passes, but for the vast majority of otoplasty clients, this will be a one-time operation.
After the Surgery
Otoplasty surgery is not painful, and most clients make a quick recovery. Each client will be given detailed postoperative instructions and medications aimed at minimizing pain and discomfort. Dr. Payne usually calls each client the evening of surgery and the morning following surgery to reinforce instructions and make sure the client is doing well. Most clients are seen one to two times per week for the first few weeks for careful monitoring and instruction. Clients are followed until they are fully healed and back to normal.
It is recommended that clients wear a head band or some other type of garment around their head to protect their ears and hold them in the proper position until solid healing has occurred, which is usually six weeks after surgery.
Clients may resume exercising and strenuous activity within seven to ten days but must protect their ears from any trauma for a minimum of six weeks. Instructions are individualized to fit each client's specific needs..
