Cosmetic ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a surgical procedure that changes the position, size, or shape of the ears. This is commonly used to correct protruding or misshapen ears.
Protruding Ear Surgery
Protruding ears, or ears that stick out too far from the head, can be corrected through otoplasty. This surgery can be performed after the ears grow to their full size, often at the age of five or later, when the ear cartilage is stable enough for correction.
During surgery, incisions are made on the back and inner creases of the ears. The skin and cartilage will be reshaped and moved into the proper place, and the incision will be closed with stitches. After surgery, there may be some discomfort and itching. A loose headband that covers the ears will need to be worn to bed for 2 to 6 weeks after surgery, to prevent the ears from being pulled during sleep. The doctor will let you know when you are able to resume physical activity after surgery.
Keloid Removal
A keloid scar is an overgrowth of collagen that forms during healing. This results in a raised growth of scar tissue over the injured area. Keloid scars are benign, but some may want them removed to improve the appearance of the area. Surgery is one option to remove keloid scars.
Keloid surgery is performed under local anesthetic. The procedure takes about fifteen minutes. During surgery, the keloid is removed, and the skin around the scar is reconstructed to restore the skin as much as possible. Sometimes with scar revision, skin from another area of the body is taken to replace damaged skin. There are several non-surgical options, such as topical products, steroid injections, and laser treatments that can help reduce the size of the keloid. Postoperative radiation treatments are often used to help prevent the recurrence of the keloid.
Earlobe Repair Surgery
Over time, heavy earrings can tear the earlobe or the lower part of the ear. Small tears that can spread over time, as well as large, full tears, are a possibility. Earlobe repair surgery fixes a large tear, restoring the shape of the earlobe.
With aging, the earlobes can elongate. Stretched and elongated earlobes can be contoured and refined.
Earlobe repair surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. The surgery is performed in about an hour. The doctor will shave off some skin from the ear, then stitch the opening closed. Most of the time, the ear is able to be re-pierced during the procedure.
Over the counter pain medication will be recommended to help with any discomfort after surgery. Typically, the stitches will be removed after one week, after swelling in the area has gone down.
How much does ear surgery cost?
The cost of face and neck ear surgery varies from patient to patient, depending on the needs and wants of each specific patient, and the procedures performed. Dr. Hardaway will help you find a procedure and payment plan that suits your needs.