Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping)

Otoplasty, or ear reshaping, may be a consideration if you or your child were born with prominent or protruding ears.

This surgical procedure can improve the position and shape of the ear by correcting the underlying cartilage structure of the ear.

In many situations this can be done in the Plastic Surgical Arts Surgical Suite, with local anesthetic, but it may also be done with general anesthetic.

Anyone who

Has macrotia, or overly large ears.

Is bothered by protruding ears occurring on one or both sides in varying degrees.

Has ears that are misshapen due to an injury or birth defect.

Is generally dissatisfied with the shape of their ears.

During your first visit, your plastic surgeon will review your medical history so be prepared to answer questions about current and past medical conditions, especially any ear infections.

We’ll also ask about any medications you're taking or have taken recently, as well as any surgeries you've had.

A physical exam will be performed to evaluate the placement, size, shape and symmetry of your ears as well as your desired outcome to determine your treatment options.

Otoplasty may be done in our surgical suite with a local anesthetic or with a general anesthetic at an outpatient surgical facility.

Otoplasty techniques vary based on what kind of correction is needed. The specific technique your plastic surgeon chooses will determine the location of the incisions and the resulting scars.

Your surgeon will make the incisions and may remove excess cartilage and skin, then fold the cartilage into the proper position and secure it with internal stitches. Additional stitches will be used to close the incisions.

The procedure typically takes about two hours.

After otoplasty, your ears will be covered in bandages.

You'll likely feel some discomfort and itching. Take pain medication as recommended. If you take pain medication and your discomfort increases, contact our office at 402-483-2572.

To keep pressure off your ears, avoid sleeping on your side and refrain from rubbing or placing excessive force on the incisions.

At your postop appointment your bandages will be removed. Your ears will likely be swollen and red.

You may need to wear a loose headband that covers your ears at night for a few weeks. This will help keep you from pulling your ears forward when rolling over in bed.

After your bandages are removed, you'll notice an immediate change in the appearance of your ears. These changes are permanent.

Patients can typically return to school or work after one week.

No strenuous exercise for at least two weeks.

No heavy lifting for three weeks.

Avoid any activity in which the ear might be bent for approximately one month.

You may resume contact sports in 1-2 months.

This procedure usually creates permanent changes in your ears.

If you follow our instructions after you get this procedure, your ears should maintain their new appearance for the rest of your life.