Ear Reshaping Procedures

About Ear Reshaping (Otoplasty)

Ears which have deformities in shape and/or are so prominent that they cause an undesirable imbalance in facial features can be corrected with a procedure called otoplasty. Overly large earlobes can also be corrected during this procedure. Excessive prominence of the ears or other undesirable shape characteristics usually occur during ear development, or occasionally with growth.  Otoplasty procedures reshape the cartilage framework of the ear where deformities exist, re-drape the skin over the re-shaped framework, and position the ear in a more pleasing balance with the head and face.

GOOD CANDIDATES FOR EAR RESHAPING: While most cosmetic surgeries are not appropriate until at least mid or late teens, severely protruding ears are often corrected as early as 6 years.  By then, the ears are near total development.  Early correction, prior to entering school, eliminates potential psychological trauma and is often recommended by family physicians and psychologists.  Generally, this procedure is appropriate for any healthy individual who is dissatisfied with the shape or prominence of their ears.

THE PROCEDURE:

The degree and location of the ear deformity will determine the exact procedure necessary.  Dr. Levens will discuss this with you when he examines you during your complimentary consultation.

Incisions for otoplasty are placed behind the ear.  The skin is then elevated in some areas and the underlying cartilage framework is exposed. The cartilage is reshaped through scoring, suturing, limited removal, or a combination of these techniques. The reshaped framework is then repositioned to achieve the best balance with the opposite side and to reduce excessive projection. The skin is re-draped, any excess skin is removed, and the incision behind the ear is closed.

A gentle pressure dressing is placed on the head to put slight pressure on the ears and maintain their new position as well as to minimize swelling and excessive fluid accumulation beneath the skin.  This dressing will be removed in 5-7 days.  All  incisions will be closed with stitches that dissolve and don't have to be removed. You can wash your hair as soon as your head dressing is removed.

CONSIDERATIONS:

. Your two ears are never exactly the same size or shape.  Though otoplasty can improve their shape and position, small differences will exist after surgery.

. Cartilage forms the framework of the ear. When moved, it tends to spring back to its original position. During surgery, weakening and shaping the cartilage reduce this tendency.  However, if the cartilage is extremely resilient, or if there is impact from scar tissue after surgery, ear prominence can re-occur in a very small number of patients. In those cases, a revision procedure may be necessary.

. Risks common to all surgical procedures such as bleeding, infection and scar tissue formation occur in a very small percentage of cases. We will give you more detailed information about these and other rare risks in our written information, and encourage you to discuss any that concern you during your consultation.

RECOVERY:

Patients report very little discomfort following ear reshaping surgery.  There is mild soreness, primarily if the ears are bumped or moved, for 1-2 weeks.  Dr. Levens will prescribe medication if necessary for a day or two. There will be some swelling in the ears for 2-3 weeks after surgery.  Most bruising will fade in 1-2 weeks.

Ear reshaping surgery is an out-patient procedure. The typical schedule of recovery is:  Bruising and swelling,  5-10 days;  return to work &  social activity,  4-10 days; aerobic or strenuous activity,  14-21 days. Any aerobic activity that increases your pulse over 100 also increases your blood pressure, and could make you bleed if this activity is resumed too soon after surgery.

FIND OUT MORE:

Dr. Levens will review every aspect of ear reshaping surgery with you during your complimentary consultation.  Patient Coordinator Diana Doria will discuss fees, financing plans and scheduling, and answer any additional questions. There is absolutely no obligation to schedule a procedure.  To arrange your consultation, please call 954-752-1020.

Dr. Levens has been providing ear reshaping (otoplasty) procedures for patients in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, Davie, Delray Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lauderhill, Margate, Miami, North Lauderdale, Parkland, Plantation, Sunrise, Tamarac, West Palm Beach, Wellington, Weston and throughout South Florida since 1989.