Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) in Oxford, MS
Many people are unhappy with the appearance of their ears. Some believe their ears are large and stick out too far from their head, while others’ ears are misshapen due to a birth defect or injury. No matter the reason for your insecurity, you deserve to feel happy and confident with your appearance.
Otoplasty can be performed on adults and children looking to alter their ears’ size, shape, or projection.
What Is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, or cosmetic ear surgery, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of ears by changing their size, shape, or projection. Many children with overly large ears are bullied at a young age, which negatively affects their self-esteem and leaves a lasting impact. Otoplasty improves confidence by correcting ear abnormalities.
Am I a Candidate for Ear Surgery?
You might be a candidate for otoplasty if you are unhappy with the size or shape of your ears. Candidates for ear surgery are in good health, have realistic expectations of their results, and do not smoke.
Ear surgery is commonly performed on younger children. However, the procedure should not be performed until the cartilage in the ear has fully developed, which happens around the age of five.
What Are the Benefits of Otoplasty?
Otoplasty surgery reshapes and resizes the ears to create a more normal, attractive appearance. Otoplasty can provide adults and children with permanent results.
Ear reshaping corrects:
- Protruding ears
- Misshapen ears
- Overly large ears
How Is Otoplasty Performed?
Otoplasty is performed using local or general anesthesia. General anesthesia is often used for younger patients to keep them asleep throughout the procedure.
For protruding ears, Dr. Shell will make small incisions on the back of the ear in or near the natural crease. Cartilage is then folded and brought closer to the head. In some cases, part of the cartilage will need to be removed before being repositioned.
For misshapen ears, Dr. Shell will remove and reshape cartilage to achieve a more natural appearance.
What Is the Recovery From Otoplasty Like?
A full otoplasty recovery will take around six weeks. After ear surgery, your head will be wrapped in bandages to protect your healing ears. After a few days, bandages can be replaced with a headband. Any pain and discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medication.
Patients are often able to return to school or work within one week.
For the first few weeks, you will need to sleep on your back with your head elevated. Sleeping on your side can damage the treatment area and affect your results.
When Will I See Results After Ear Surgery?
While otoplasty results are visible immediately after surgery, you will not be able to enjoy your new look until swelling and bruising subside. Results will continue to improve over the next few months as your ears fully heal.
Does Otoplasty Treat the Earlobes?
Otoplasty does not correct trauma to the earlobes. However, Dr. Shell offers earlobe repair surgery for patients with torn or stretched earlobes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Surgery
There are numerous factors to consider before committing to any cosmetic surgery. Below is a list of frequently asked questions associated with ear surgery:
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Why should I choose Dr. Shell for my ear surgery?
During your consultation, Dr. Shell will listen carefully to your concerns, ensuring that all treatments are customized to meet your goals. He uses the latest technology in a comfortable and confidential setting. Dr. Shell is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Board of Surgery (ABS). He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).
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Can I drive home after ear surgery?
If your ear surgery is performed using local anesthesia, you are free to drive yourself home. However, patients who undergo ear surgery with general anesthesia will need to bring a responsible adult to the appointment to drive them home.
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What are the risks of otoplasty?
Otoplasty is a generally safe procedure when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Shell. However, risks are present with any surgery.
These risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Anesthesia risks
- Scarring
- Numbness
- Skin discoloration
Interested in Learning More About Ear Reshaping in Oxford, MS?
If you are interested in learning more about otoplasty, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Shell’s office at 662-236-6465 or fill out our online contact form.