A pediatric otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure offered by Dr. Stanislaw that can change the position, shape, and size of a child’s ear. It’s also called ear pinning surgery or ear reshaping surgery. The most common reason for performing an otoplasty is when the ear sticks out too far from the head, giving the ear the appearance of being too large. In this situation, an otoplasty restructures the ear so it is closer to the head, creating the appearance of a smaller ear. Ear surgery can be performed on just one ear if only one ear sticks out, or both ears if both ears stick out.
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Children who have one or both ears that stick out usually undergo otoplasty as an outpatient procedure in the hospital under general anesthesia. Children 13 years and older will have the option to undergo the procedure with local anesthesia. This will be determined during the initial consultation with Dr. Stanislaw.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR AN OTOPLASTY?
The normal position of an ear is 15 to 17 millimeters from the outer edge of the ear to the scalp immediately behind the ear. If an ear sticks out further than 17mm from the scalp, an otoplasty would be recommended. If you or your child is concerned about the position, size, or shape of their ears, you might consider a consultation to discuss an otoplasty procedure. Children must be at least five years old to be considered for treatment. Dr. Stanislaw also offers otoplasty for adult patients concerned with their prominent ears.
There are two main reasons why an otoplasty is performed after a child is 5 years old: The first reason is that at this age the child’s ear has nearly reached its adult size. The second reason is that at 5 years old (the beginning of school) the child is developing a sense of body identity and will start to recognize that their protruding ears look different from their peers.
IS THERE ANY SCARRING FROM AN OTOPLASTY?
During the surgical procedure, an incision is made behind the ear. Excess skin and cartilage are trimmed from around the ear and then the ear is sutured close to the head. Dr. Stanislaw will consider each patient’s unique ear shape and facial features to achieve natural-looking results. The incision usually heals very well and blends in seamlessly within the natural crease that occurs behind the ear.
HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY PERIOD FOR AN OTOPLASTY?
Because the incision for an otoplasty is in the crease behind the ear, the sutures cannot be seen after the surgery. The sutures are removed one week after the surgery. Even though the incision is in the crease behind the ear, there is still bruising on the front side of the ear. This bruising can be present for one to two weeks.
A ski band will be worn at night while the patient sleeps for one month after treatment. Patients can wash their hair in a shower the next day. Swimming should be avoided for one month after the procedure. An otoplasty provides a lifelong change to the appearance of a patient’s ear or ears.
WHEN SHOULD I SCHEDULE MY CHILD’S PROCEDURE?
It is important to schedule your child’s procedure when they will have time off from school to recover. Patients typically have their procedure over summer vacation. Therefore, you should schedule a consultation for late winter or early spring to guarantee your spot over the summer. If you’re considering pediatric otoplasty in Hartford, CT, call our office today or fill out an online contact form to schedule your consultation with Dr. Stanislaw.
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