Otoplasty - Ear Surgery

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Procedure

Sets prominent ears back closer to the head and/or reduces the size of large ears. This procedure is most often performed on children between the ages of four and fourteen and may be covered by insurance.

Length

Approximately two hours.

Anesthesia

Young children: usually general anesthesia is given. For older children or adults: a general or local anesthesia is used with sedation.

Inpatient/Outpatient

Usually this is an outpatient procedure.

Possible Side Effects

Temporary throbbing, aching, swelling, redness and/or numbness.

Risks

Infection of cartilage, excessive scarring, blood clots that may need to be drained, mismatched or artificial-looking ears, or the recurrence of the protrusion which requires repeat surgery.

Recovery

The patient may return to school or work within five to seven days, and resume strenuous activity, such as contact sports in one to two months.

Results

Usually permanent.