Otoplasty

What is an Otoplasty?

This surgical procedure is used to reduce large or protruding ears. This procedure sets the ears back closer to the head and may involve molding, shaping and/or removing cartilage to pull the ears in, and reduce the protrusion. This procedure will not affect your hearing. It involves only the outer ear, not the middle or inner ear where hearing takes place.

Who is a good candidate for an Otoplasty?

Candidates must be in good health, have no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions, and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery. Otoplasty can be performed at any age after the ears have reached (or nearly reached) their adult size. This usually occurs at around 5 to 6 years of age. This surgery is most frequently performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14. Most procedures are performed for aesthetic reasons and to help children better adapt and blend in with their peers. In many cases, children with large ears suffer from ridicule, adapt poorly to school, and feel extremely self-conscious. Adults may be candidates for this operation as well.

NOTE: You may not be a candidate for surgery if you smoke, have recently quit smoking, or if you are exposed to second-hand smoke. Primary and secondary smoking decreases blood flow to the body's tissues. This can result in prolonged wound healing, skin loss, infection, increased scarring, and a number of other complications depending on the kind of procedure performed. Click here for more information related to smoking.

How is the procedure performed?

An incision is made behind the ear, where the ear is joined to the head. The surgeon then removes as much of the cartilage and skin as needed to achieve the desired effect. The surgeon may trim the cartilage, reshaping it and then pinning it back with permanent sutures to secure the cartilage. In other instances, the surgeon will not remove any cartilage at all, but may simply use stitches to reshape the cartilage permanently. Incisions and the resulting scars are well concealed on the back of the ear.

List of Physicians Who Perform the Otoplasty

For details about education, experience, and specialty in this clinical area, please visit these physician profile pages:

Planning for Your Surgery

First, schedule a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you'd like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and what long-term benefits you will experience. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation:

  • Provide a complete medical history. Include information about any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
  • Your surgeon will examine the structure of both ears. Even if only one ear needs correction, surgery may still be recommended on both ears to achieve a natural, symmetrical appearance.
  • Be prepared to discuss possible risks and complications of the procedure.

Preparing for Your Surgery

You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. A pre-operative information packet will be provided that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your plastic surgery team will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. You may also want to make arrangements for someone to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital.

Where Your Surgery Will be Performed

Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis.

Types of Anesthesia

General anesthetic is used so that you will sleep and remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.

After Your Surgery

Click here for information about how to care for yourself after the surgery and what to expect during your recovery. It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.