Otoplasty
Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, can improve the shape, position or proportion of the ear. This procedure can correct a defect in the ear structure that is present at birth that becomes apparent with development or it can treat misshapen ears caused by injury.
Ear surgery creates a natural shape, while bringing balance and proportion to the ears and face. Correction of even minor deformities can have profound benefits to appearance and self-esteem. If protruding or disfigured ears bother you or your child, you may consider plastic surgery.
Specifically ear surgery can treat:
- Overly large ears — a rare condition called Macrotia.
- Protruding ears occurring on one or both sides in varying degrees — not associated with hearing loss.
- Prominent Ear Deformity
- Adult dissatisfaction with previous ear surgery.
Ear Lobe Ptosis or Sagging
Ptosis, or sagging of the earlobe, has become a significant complaint in plastic surgery practices. Earlobe deformities can occur with age and are thought to be caused by the loss of elastic fibers and from gravitational pull. Restoring an aging earlobe is an important consideration for a plastic surgeon when looking to create an overall youthful appearance for a patient. Treatment of earlobe ptosis is easily corrected through a minimally invasive surgical wedge excision for earlobe reduction.
Ear Lobe Repair or Reconstruction after Traumatic Injuries
A split or torn earlobe is one of the most common aesthetic deformities of the ear. This can result from heavy earrings, an earlobe that is pierced in an improper position, or from trauma to the lobe. Regardless, it can cause distress to the patient who wants to continue to wear earrings or would like to restore symmetry to their earlobes.
Earlobe Reduction
An earlobe reduction procedure is where a wedge of redundant earlobe is easily removed and the remaining tissue rotated together and closed. A small scar will result, but it is hardly perceptible.