Ear Surgery

Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of 4 and 14 although there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient. An incision is made in the back of the ear so cartilage can be sculpted or folded. Stitches are used to close the incision and help maintain the new shape. Creation of a fold in the cartilage makes the ear lie flatter against the head and appear more normal. Most patients, young and old alike, are thrilled with the results of ear surgery. But keep in mind, the goal is improvement, not perfection. Don't expect both ears to match perfectly. Perfect symmetry is both unlikely and unnatural in ears.