Ear Surgery (otoplasty)

Overview: Ear Surgery

Otoplasty is performed to reshape or “pin back” protruding ears so that they appear normal and natural. Dr. Jonov offers ear reshaping and performs this surgery for Seattle area patients as young as 5 or 6 when ear growth is nearly complete. Though the doctor can perform it on adults as well, otoplasty is most successful on younger patients with more malleable cartilage. Though the procedure is most commonly sought to correct protruding ears, otoplasty can also reshape ears, reduce them in size, or make them more symmetrical.

Surgical Technique

Performed to correct the protruding ears of children and adults, otoplasty is performed to reshape or “pin back” protruding ears so that they appear normal and natural. Dr. Jonov offers ear reshaping and performs this surgery for Seattle area patients as young as 5 or 6 when ear growth is nearly complete. Though possible to perform on adults, otoplasty is most successful on younger patients with more malleable cartilage. Though the procedure is most commonly sought to correct protruding ears, otoplasty can also reshape ears, reduce them in size, or make them more symmetrical.

Questions about Ear Surgery

Permanent Results?
The results following an otoplasty procedure are long lasting. However, just like any other cosmetic procedure, aging and gravity may cause increased laxity. This could eventually affect the position of the ears. For the most part, the improvements this surgery makes are still significant.

Ideal Age?
Children between the ages of 4-6 are considered within the ideal range for this surgery. From an anatomical standpoint, the cartilage is still soft and easier to remold and manipulate. From a psychological standpoint, having this surgery before starting elementary school can help avoid teasing and ridicule from classmates.

Both Ears or Just One?
In the majority of cases, both ears are affected. Therefore, surgery is performed on both ears. However, sometimes an abnormality is present in just one ear. If this is the case, Dr. Jonov will perform surgery on the affected ear and make it match the opposite ear.

During/After Ear Augmentation Surgery

Dr. Jonov performs all otoplasties under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility. The entire surgery typically takes about 2 hours to complete. After surgery, the doctor will send home the patient with their heads wrapped in a compression bandage, which he later replaces with lighter bandaging. Initially, patients feel discomfort if they attempt to move their ears. This will subside in a few days. Younger patients need monitoring so they do not touch or play with their ears during the healing process.

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