Ear Pinning Surgery Procedure: Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. The surgeon will make a small incision in the back of the ear and then sculpt the cartilage back toward the head. Sometimes cartilage may be removed in order to form a more natural looking fold when the surgery is complete. Length: Normally two to three hours, although complicated procedures may take longer. Anesthesia: Local or general. Determined on an individual basis. In/Outpatient: Outpatient. Risks: When performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. A small percentage of patients may develop a blood clot on the ear. It may dissolve naturally or can be drawn out with a needle. Occasionally, patients develop an infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue to form. Such infections are usually treated with antibiotics; rarely, surgery may be required to drain the infected area. Recovery: The patient's head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following surgery to promote the best molding and healing. The ears may throb or ache a little for a few days, but this can be relieved by medication. Within a few days, the bulky bandages will be replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a headband. Be sure to follow your surgeon's directions for wearing this dressing, especially at night. Stitches are usually removed, or will dissolve, in about a week. Any activity in which the ear might be bent should be avoided for a month or so. Most adults can go back to work about five days after surgery. Children can go back to school after seven days or so, if they're careful about playground activity. You may want to ask your child's teacher to keep an eye on the child for a few weeks. Duration of Results: Permanent. Click here for more information about Ear Pinning Surgery. |
| Vinings Surgery Center 1900 The Exchange Building 300 Suite 300 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: (770)-955-9000 Fax: (770)-955-9009 |
