Otoplasty Cosmetic Ear Surgery

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Many parents investigate ear surgery for their child but are unsure about the consequences, procedure and if their child is even a candidate. Below are common questions about otoplasty that will help you determine if ear surgery is appropriate for your child.

What is otoplasty

Otoplasty is a simple, cosmetic solution for malformed ears. It is minimally invasive and requires little recovery time.

Do adults have ear surgery too

Yes, adults can opt to adjust their ear prominence. However, adult ear cartilage is less pliable than that of children, which limits the potential results. Consequently, adults that decide to have otoplasty performed must have realistic expectations for the procedure.

How old must a child be to have otoplasty performed

Children must have fully developed ears in order to qualify for ear surgery. This typically occurs around age four, which is the most common age for children to have their ears surgically adjusted.

What can otoplasty correct

If your child's ear shape and prominence may subject him to peer abuse, a qualified surgeon can adjust the shape in order to provide a more aesthetically appealing and natural look. Common issues corrected by otoplasty include:

Lopped Ears
- When the ear tip appears weighted and bends down over the ear
- Cupped Ears
- Ears that are tiny or without creases
- Large and protruding ears and/or earlobes

What side effects are associated with otoplasty

Otoplasty is a minimally invasive cosmetic solution for malformed ears. Still, due to the pliability of cartilage in children, it is recommended that they refrain from engaging in physical activities for three weeks after the procedure. Any physical damage may negatively impact the result.

Adults on the other hand, can return to regular physical activity within three days after the procedure.

Even though the procedure is minimally invasive, occasional side effects may occur, including:

Headaches
- Numbness
- Discomfort
- Loss of sensation in the incision region for six months
- Swelling

What kind of anesthesia is used

Patients remain fully conscious during ear surgery. Otoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis and only conscious sedation is used to minimize pain. Following the procedure, many patients recover without requiring pain-reducing medication.

How is otoplasty performed

Every ear surgeon has unique strategies for performing ear surgery. Skilled surgeons can sculpt ear cartilage or remove excess skin through a discreet incision behind the ear. Generally, dis-solvable stitches seal the incision while non-removable stitches secure the adjusted cartilage.

If you live in the Washington, D.C. or northern Virginia area and are concerned about your child's ear prominence, please contact NOVA SurgiCare, PC today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hamrah - Website: www.novasurgicare.com

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