What Causes Large Ears?
There are a few reasons ears can appear to “stick out” from the head. One is that the concho-scaphal angle is significant. The concho-scaphal angle is the angle the ear makes in relation to the side of the head. If it’s too small, the ears appear closer to the head. If the concho-scaphal angle is too large, the ears seem to stick out.
Another reason ears can appear large or protruding occurs when the ears have a large conchal bowl, the round or “bowl-like” part of the ear. If the conchal bowl is too big, your ears will look larger and protrude from the side of your head.
Finally, another cause of protruding ears is a weak anti-helical fold, the medical term that describes the part of the ear that folds over the outer edge. For individuals with a weak anti-helical fold, the ear will protrude more than usual.
Why Choose an Otoplasty?
As we mentioned, the otoplasty procedure is a corrective surgery designed to improve the appearance of your ears and make them less prominent.
The otoplasty procedure can also correct a:
- Shell ear, which develops when the outer edge of the ear lacks natural curves
- Cupped ear
- Lop ear, a situation the develops when the outer, upper rim folds down
While the physical benefits of ear correction can improve the aesthetic appeal of the ears, even more important is the emotional benefit of feeling more confident in one’s appearance and eliminating the chance of teasing about ear size or prominence. After otoplasty, many of our patients express they feel relieved that they look “normal.”
The otoplasty surgery is an outpatient procedure that is done under general anesthesia. Adults who choose otoplasty are generally treated with a local anesthetic, while children who undergo surgical otoplasty typically undergo general anesthesia.
After anesthesia is administered, Dr. Peterson will make an incision along the natural fold of the ear where the ear meets the head. Dr. Peterson will then reshape cartilage and skin in order to attain a more pleasing appearance.
How Long Does the Otoplasty Procedure Take?
The otoplasty procedure can take one to two hours. If you have had your procedure under general anesthesia, you will have to wait until the anesthesia wears off to go home, while individuals who have their treatment under local anesthetic can leave the office soon after their surgery.
Is the Otoplasty Procedure Painful?
There is some pain associated with the procedure, but most patients say it is minimal. Most individuals resume their normal activities, school or work within just three to five days.
You may experience post-surgical swelling after your procedure that can last several weeks. The majority of the swelling goes down within the first two weeks after surgery. You should also expect to wear a compression headband to help reduce swelling and protect the ears.
After the otoplasty procedure, you will have to sleep on your back to prevent pressure against the ears that could affect the final results.
When Can Children Have Otoplasty?
Ear-pinning treatment can be performed on children as young as 5 years of age. Before they enter kindergarten is the ideal time for the procedure. Fun fact: By age 5, the ear is 90 percent done growing and is nearly adult-sized.
Is There Scarring After the Otoplasty Procedure?
As with any surgery, you should expect some scarring. However, the incisions for this procedure are hidden in the natural crease of the ear and incisions are very small. In most cases, otoplasty scars fade significantly over time.
Want to learn more about the otoplasty procedure? Call Dr. Peterson today to schedule an appointment for a consultation.
