If you were born with misshapen ears or suffered an injury later in life that altered the shape of your ears, Otoplasty, or ear reshaping surgery, may be right for you.
One of the most common types of Otoplasty is called ear pinning. This involves ‘pinning’ the ears back closer to the head. This procedure is performed on those whose ears protrude noticeably from the sides of their head.
Traditionally, Otoplasty can be performed on children between the ages of 8-14. With so much focus on ear repairs for children, adults may think there are no surgical options available to them to correct the shape or position of their ears. Fortunately, that is not the case; Otoplasty is becoming a popular procedure.
Dr. Kim has extensive experience correcting ear abnormalities, helping men and women feel less self-conscious about their ears and more confident about their appearance.
WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR EAR SURGERY?
Here are some examples:
- Ears that ‘stick out’ noticeably far from the sides of the head
- Larger than usual
- Have been misshapen due to injury or developmental issues
Dr. Kim will perform an ear procedure as young as 8 and adults who are eligible for cosmetic ear surgery should ideally be in good overall health with no underlying medical conditions.
It’s very important that both the patient and the family have a positive outlook and maintain realistic expectations for the results of the surgery.
OTOPLASTY PROCEDURE
Before going in for surgery, you will have a consultation with Dr. Kim. He will go over your medical history, medications and past surgeries.
Dr. Kim will also examine your ears, evaluating their shape, size, and overall placement. He will then discuss the details of the procedure with you, including the likely result and any potential risks.
During the consultation, you’ll have the chance to ask him any questions you have about the procedure. If there’s something you don’t understand or just feel you need more information, don’t be afraid to ask.
The procedure itself can take between 1-3 hours and is performed in our surgical suite in our office. For younger children general anesthesia is used and for adults they have the alternative option of local anesthetic.
During the procedure, Dr. Kim will make an incision behind the ear, in the groove between the ear and the head. He will then remove or reshape some of the cartilage. Then, using permanent stitches the incision will be closed up.
Otoplasty is a safe procedure with a high success rate. Studies have found that otoplasty can increase one’s quality of life.
Here are some before and after photos of Dr. Kim’s patients.
OTOPLASTY RECOVERY
After the surgery is complete, Dr. Kim will apply a heavy dressing over both ears. This dressing will need to remain in place for a few days. Written post op instructions will be given.
It is normal to feel some discomfort immediately after surgery, such as aching and throbbing. This can be controlled using oral pain medication. Once the dressing is removed, the patient will need to wear a headband (especially at night) in order to protect the ears.
The patient can expect minor swelling to occur after surgery. This should resolve completely within four weeks. Once the dressings are removed, the results should be immediately noticeable. As the swelling goes down, the appearance of the ears will continue to improve and will begin to look more refined. Ear surgery leaves a scar on the back of the ear, but this is not a cause for concern as it will fade with time.
Within several weeks after surgery, you should be able to return to most normal activities. However, if you have any questions, do not hesitate to call the office.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
If you would like to know more about this procedure and if you are a candidate, please call our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim. We have two convenient locations, Melbourne 321.725.5377 or Suntree 321.255.7724
