Many adults and children feel self-conscious about protruding ears and often conceal their problem by adjusting their hairstyles to cover the ears. These individuals often feel very conscious about their appearance and struggle with low self esteem. If protruding ears bother you, then you are likely a good candidate for otoplasty. Some people are born with ears that protrude away from their head, a condition known as prominent ears, more commonly known as “bat ears”. This happens when the major fold in the outer ear cartilage just inside the rim of the ear is underdeveloped, or there is excess cartilage in the “ear concha” the cup of the ear. There can also be a combination of both these problems. Otoplasty commonly known as “ear pinning surgery” is a surgical procedure with a very high satisfaction rate. Although performed in adults, children over the age of 5 years can also undergo this procedure, typically when the development of ear is complete. Otoplasty is a customized procedure. During otoplasty the natural ear fold is outer ear is created to simulate the normal ear, excess cartilage is removed where indicated to reduce the distance between the ear and the head. This allows to reduce the prominence of the ear and brings the ear to its normal position.

The ideal candidate for an otoplasty procedure is someone who meets the following criteria:

• They are in good overall physical health.
• Their ears protrude excessively from their head.
• They should not have any serious medical condition or chronic ear infections.
• They are dissatisfied with a previous ear surgery.
• They are over the age of 5 years as the development of the ears will be complete by this age. Parents and pediatrician should agree for the procedure.
• Children should be old enough to follow post procedure instructions.

Technique:

After evaluating the patient, Dr. Rani determines the best approach for him/her. The procedure is commonly performed under local anaesthesia. Children require General Anaesthesia. Dr. Rani places a small incision on the back of the ears and removes a small crescent of skin. She then places deep incisions in the cartilage to allow it to fold with the help of permanent sutures. This creates the missing fold in the external ear. If indicated, any excess cartilage in the concha is excised. Sutures are then placed to tuck the ear neatly against the scalp. Ones the incision heals, the scars are small and very well hidden behind the ear.

Recovery and advice:

After otoplasty, bandages are applied to the ears for protection and support. There can be some discomfort and itching. Dressing is removed and ears are inspected at one week. Upon removing the bandages, it is normal for your ears to exhibit swelling and a reddish appearance. External sutures are removed at this time and a soft wide elastic headband is advised to be worn for 2 weeks day and night, and then for 3 months at night. It is also advised to sleep on your back for 2 weeks to avoid placing pressure on your ears. You can wash hair after a week. During the first week after the surgery, lose fitting button down shirt is advised as t shirts when pulled over the head can hurt the ears and disrupt the sutures which hold the ear is place. Strenuous exercises should be avoided for two or three weeks. Avoid excessive sweating until all the wounds have healed well. Children should be out of school for at least 2 weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for 3 months.

Post operative swelling takes around 3 months to subside completely.

Frequently Asked Questions