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Prominent
ears can be surgically repositioned closer
to the head or in some cases, also made
smaller. Frequently, this procedure is
performed upon children if they
are becoming conscious abut the size or
position of their ears.
I
feel that it is very important to let
the child voice his or her opinion whether
or not their ear size is troubling them.
Classically, the surgery has been done
when the child is between ages 6 to 7
years old. However, more recently, this
timetable has been moved up to age 4,
to avoid issues with peers as the child
enters school age.
In
recent years, we have seen a large number
of adults who have elected to have surgery.
The goal is to achieve a more balanced
and natural look. However, complete and
perfect symmetry is not possible as there
are inherent differences within ear tissues.
Most patients are very pleased with the
results and the improved appearance.
Complications
are rare - but must be thoroughly discussed
and considered before you decide to have
surgery.
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Ears that appear
to stick out or are overly large
can be helped by ear surgery.
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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.
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Patient
Before and After Photos - Ear Pinning
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At
the time of consultation and the pre-operative
appointment, a very detailed packet is
reviewed with every patient including
the following:
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Procedure
Description:
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Set prominent ears
back closer to the head, or reduce
the size of large ears. Most often
done on children between the ages
of 4 and 14 years. (Occasionally
covered by insurance.)
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Surgery
Length:
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2 to 3 hours.
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Cost Range:
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Anesthesia:
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Young children:
usually general. Older children
or adults: general or local, with
sedation.
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In/Outpatient:
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Usually outpatient.
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Side Effects:
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Temporary throbbing,
aching, swelling, redness, numbness.
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Risks associated
with Surgery:
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Infection of cartilage.
Excessive scarring. Blood clot that
may need to be drained. Mismatched
or artificial- looking ears. Recurrence
of the protrusion, requiring repeat
surgery.
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Recovery
Period:
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Back to work or
school: 5 to 7 days.
Strenuous activity, contact sports:
1 to 2 months.
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Duration
of Results:
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Usually permanent.
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