Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)

Prominent or protruding ears can be a source of embarrassment and mental anguish for many people, especially children. In the past few decades, thousands of individuals have been physically as well as psychologically helped through a surgical procedure called otoplasty. Otoplasty, sometimes described as "pinning back" the ears, is designed to change their shape and contour. It may be performed on anyone over the age of five or six years old, the age at which ear growth is almost complete. For those children with severely protruding ears, it is recommended that the surgery be performed at an early age before they are subjected to psychological stress related to the condition. Adults comprise nearly 50% of patients undergoing otoplasty.

BEFORE SURGERY

Prior to surgery, a medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. A careful examination is also conducted. Dr. Gordon and patient or, in the case of a minor, a family member, discuss how the ears should look and what can realistically be expected. The type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, and possible risks and complications are also discussed. Digital photography with imaging is done before surgery. Preoperative instructions may include the elimination of certain drugs that contain aspirin for several weeks before the procedure in order to minimize the possibility of excessive bleeding. Patients will be expected to shampoo their hair with an antiseptic shampoo the night before surgery.

THE PROCEDURE

Otoplasty will be performed in the Complete Cosmetic Surgery Center operating room or at Spring Valley Hospital, depending upon the patient and Dr. Gordon’s preference. It is done under general anesthesia with the patient asleep. Premedication may be administered to relax the patient.

There are several surgical procedures that are designed to bring the ears closer to the head. A basic procedure involves an incision made at the back of the ear to expose the cartilage. The surgeon may either fold down the cartilage and use sutures to keep the folds together or remove excess cartilage. After reshaping the cartilage, the incisions are closed with small sutures a small suction drain is placed and the ears are covered with bandages. The procedure can take up to two hours or more depending upon the extent of surgery.

FOLLOWING SURGERY

Pain connected with the surgery is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. Bandages are removed within a few days and are replaced with a lighter head dressing. Wearing a tennis headband for a period of time to hold back the ears may also be recommended. Bruising around the area occurs but fades within a few weeks. Some temporary swelling occurs but this condition can be alleviated by keeping the head elevated when reclining. All patients are given an assortment of homeopathic medications designed to substantially reduce swelling and bruising after surgery. Patients should sleep on a soft pillow but not directly on the ears. One to two days after surgery, patients will be encouraged to shampoo their hair. Scars from the incisions fade significantly in time and are, for the most part, inconspicuous because the incisions are made within the creases of the ears. Although patients are usually up and around one or two days after surgery, the decision as to when normal activities can be resumed is determined by Dr. Gordon and is based on the extent of surgery.

Each year thousands of otoplasties are successfully performed. Occasionally a second procedure is necessary if an ear begins to protrude again. Complications of infection are rare; however there are certain inherent risks connected with every surgical procedure that will be thoroughly discussed prior to surgery. Patients can minimize complications by carefully following directions given by Dr. Gordon.