Ear Surgery: Q&A
Ask a Question
Is is Possible to Have Ear Surgery on Just One Ear?
I have one ear that sticks out farther than my other one. A friend told me that if I wanted to have it fixed I would have to have surgery on both of them. Is that true?
Tags:
37 Doctor Answers |
Asked by
Eva S
in Seattle, WA
+2
One Ear At A Time
Otoplasty can be performed on one ear or both ears. The key factor is to find out what characteristics of your ear you would like to change. Most of the time, there is an effort to make them less prominent.
+2
Otoplasty: Ear Pinning Surgery; Measurements and Technique
Otoplasty is a procedure whereby the ear is outwardly displaced. It can occur because of a number of different reasons including loss of the antihelical fold, a large conchal bowl, trauma, and a conchoscaphal angle greater than 90 degrees.
Experience is important in correction of ear deformities. On initial consultation, a surgeon will measure specific measurements of the ear. A patient may think they only have one ear that is protruded but by measurement may have both ears protruding. ...
more
+2
Unilateral otoplasty
Otoplasty can be performed on one ear.
Find a board certified plastic surgeon who will be able to analyze the structure of your ears and explain why they are different shapes (is the a lack of cartilage folding? Is there excess cartilage).
Once those determinations have been made it should be straightforward to provide surgical correction to the ear that causes you concern.
I hope this helps.
Steven Williams, MD
You might also like...
Real Stories
Bad Experience/ Unhappy with Results - Oakbrook, IL
I've wanted an otoplasty for as long as I can remember. I guess I wanted it so bad that I...
+2
It is okay to operate on just one ear.
Maria,
Good news... You do not have to have both of your ear operated on to achieve good symmetry. The best thing is for your to go see a qualified plastic surgeon for a consultation. If only one ear has a problem, then only that ear needs the operation. There is no need to operate on the good ear.
I hope this is helpful.
David Shafer, MD
New York City
+1
It is definitely possible to do ear surgery on one ear.
Correction of the degree of projection of the ear can be surgically altered with a high degree of accuracy and with predictable results. The surgery is done under local anesthesia. I often have patients look in the mirror during surgery to assess if they are happy with the position and symmetry of their ears.
+1
Unilateral otoplasty
If one ear is farther from the skull or is otherwise improperly formed or situated, unilateral otoplasty would be appropriate. You should see a board certified plastic surgeon in consultation to discuss your expectations and goals.
+1
Otoplasty sutures
Fortunately your friend is not correct. Otoplasty may be performed on one year ear only. It is important to be examined by a well-qualified/experienced surgeon to help you determine the benefits of operating on one or both ears. You should also be aware that despite surgery, the ears will likely not be perfectly matched. Best wishes.
+1
One Sided Otoplasty
You are not alone! You can have otoplasty surgery done on only one ear to help create more symmetry between the two sides!
+1
Yes, One sided Otoplasty is Totally Possible
Since I do a tremendous number of otoplasties in my clinic, I have encountered several that only needed one ear done. Sometimes I do both ears but I do more on one side to make them more symmetrical. In fact, this is very common. I have attached a video for your benefit.
best,
Dr. Sam Lam
Dallas, TX
see video
+1
Otoplasty surgery can be applied to both or just one of your ears!
It is fairly common for individuals to have one ear slightly more prominent than the other. Most commonly, we elect to operate on both ears and try to treat them accordingly to give the most symmetry. Sometimes however, we do operate on just one ear, if the other one is actually already sitting pretty.
This equals half the pain for two great ears!
Otoplasty can be a very rewarding procedure, I really enjoy doing them, Good luck!
For examples of Otoplasties I...
more
Comments (0)