Should I get an otoplasty? (photo)

Question

When I was younger my ears appeared to be large and protruding. Due to this I still see it this way despite my parents telling me I grew into them. I have wanted an otoplasty for a few years now since learning what it was, however when I tell people about my interest in this surgery they think I’m being ridiculous and ‘don’t need it’. Do you think I should go ahead with an otoplasty?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Good morning, thank you very much for your question, according to what can be observed in the photograph, the recommended procedure is an otoplasty that consists of:Ear SurgeryOtoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting prominent or "protruding" ears.
The aim is to achieve a repositioning of the ears, closer to the head, and not absolute symmetry.
Otoplasty is usually performed in children from 4 to 14 years old who are dissatisfied with their ears, since in many cases it poses a problem at the level of social relationship, although it can also be performed in adults.BeforeIn the consultation the plastic surgeon will evaluate the problem to be corrected. Your general health will also be assessed and you will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
DuringOtoplasty is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia, its duration is given between 1 and 2 hours.
AfterAfter Otoplasty the ears may hurt for a few days. Returning to school or work is usually possible in 1 week, but you should limit physical activities for the first month.RisksComplications after an Otoplasty are infrequent and among them we can find: hematoma, infection or healing problems.ResultsAfter an Otoplasty, the result is not immediate, as in most procedures, but you have to wait for the edema to disappear. After that time, the results are usually permanent

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your
question and for your photos. Only you can decide if you want to change the appearance of your ears with otoplasty. I would advise you to schedule a consultation with a
board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed examination to discuss all
possible treatment options and what your expectations are.

Suleyman Tas, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Only you can decide whether you need this surgery or not. But the overall appearance can be improved by the otoplasty. Ears are important parameter that determines the width of your head. In a Flap technique, which was developed by me for correcting prominent ears, the sutures are used to fold the ear cartilage back. As I use absorbable sutures, suture extrusion after the surgery is out of question. I flatten the ears backwards with the flap tissue dehiscence and relapses after surgery is out of question as well. To find out more similar cases like yours please click on the attached link. 
  
Best Regards

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

This decision is something that you should make. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your ears, then otoplasty may help reduce their size and projection. However, you should be aware that like with any surgery, otoplasty does come with its own set of risks. If you think that the benefits outweigh these risks, then please see a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in otoplasty for a consultation.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Based on your photograph, you may benefit from an otoplasty.  This decision should be based on a detailed discussion with equal input from both you and your surgeon.   Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. 
 
 Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS

Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

Otoplasty or ear surgery is an excellent option to reduce prominent ears and make the ears less noticeable on frontal view.  The decision to have the surgery however is deeply personal and based on whether the benefits of the surgery to you are worth the risk, cost and recovery of surgery.  It would be  discussed this in depth in consultation with the surgeon.  Best of luck to you.

Oliver Harley, FRCSEd(Plast) · Answer

Hi Matt, thanks for your question.
Looking at your photos, prominent ear correction (aka pinnaplasty or otoplasty) would appear a reasonable thing to do if you are troubled by the prominence of the ears.  This can be done as an awake (local anaesthetic) operation or as an asleep (general anaesthetic/sedation) procedure.  It is day case surgery and very much a routine operation which takes 60-90 mins to perform.  There is swelling and bruising after surgery and this is mostly settled at 2 weeks.  Depending on your day to day lifestyle you may want to consider resting up at home during this time this is not essential to do for most people excepting very physical jobs and sports.
I hope this helps

Should I get an otoplasty? (photo)

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