Are You a Candidate for Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?

There are many different types of otoplasty, or ear surgery, designed to correct the appearance of overly large, protruding, or lop-sided ears. Ear surgery can also repair lobes that have been overly stretched from piercings and other body modifications. The shape, position, and proportions of the ears can be improved with this procedure, and it can be effective for children and teens that are ridiculed by their peers for protruding ears. Here are a few facts about the ear surgery procedure.

1. Ear surgery to correct a birth deformity is best repaired in children that are at least 5 years old. At this age, the cartilage is stable enough to support the repair, and will prevent future bullying and self-esteem issues that may arise. A negative self image can impact a child’s performance in school, and later in life in the work place. The best candidates do not get upset or try to argue against surgery, and have good cooperation skills. Teens with a positive outlook and deep understanding of the procedure are also good candidates.
2. Ear surgery will not produce two identical or symmetrical ears. Naturally, ears have minor differences between them. To produce two completely identical ears would look unnatural.
3. During recovery, it is normal to feel itchy! However, bandages are not to be removed under any circumstances until your plastic surgeon has instructed you to do so. These bandages assist in healing and removing them too quickly could compromise the results.
4. When applicable, incisions are placed in natural folds of the ear, or behind the ear to decrease the visibility of scarring. Scars lighten and fade over time.
5. Results are visible immediately after surgery and continue to improve over time once swelling has subsided.
6. Ear surgery is a highly individualized procedure and should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed many procedures, and can provide before and after photographs to help patients accurately align their expectations.
7. Complications from ear surgery are rare, as are the chances of poor healing. Overall, otoplasty is considered a low-risk procedure with many physical and emotional benefits.
8. Recovery from ear surgery generally lasts 1-2 weeks.
9. Prior to otoplasty, patients should be in general good health, and non-smokers with a healthy realistic expectation for their results.
10. Ear surgery for purely cosmetic purposes is not covered by insurance, however, ear surgery to correct a birth deformity or to improve hearing is sometimes partially covered by some insurance policies. Patients should contact their insurance company to check their coverage prior to the procedure.

Ear Surgery in West Orange and Jersey City

Ready to explore plastic surgery for the first time? Take the first step – contact us today. To schedule your plastic surgery consultation with Dr. Sanjay Lalla, call our West Orange office at 973-324-9455 or our Jersey City office at 201-763-6764. We look forward to hearing from you.