Ear Pinning Louisville

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Louisville, Lexington, Kentucky

What is An Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that is performed to improve the size, projection, or shape of the ears. It is sometimes called ear pinning because one of the goals that otoplasty can achieve is to “pin,” or bring protruding ears inward toward the head. Ear malformation of any kind can affect self-esteem at any age. The otoplasty procedure takes attention away from the ears and puts it back on the face, where it belongs. This surgery is customized to each patient’s anatomy and goals.

Who Is An Ideal Candidate for Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is for pinning ears that protrude and so much more. Patients who are healthy and have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve are usually very good candidates for this elective procedure. Some of the scenarios for which otoplasty may be considered include:

  • Ear size is out of proportion with the face.
  • Asymmetry of the ears, with one larger or shaped differently than the other.
  • Congenital ear malformation such as lopping.
  • Unsatisfactory results from a previous otoplasty procedure.

How Old Should You Be to Get Ear Pinning Surgery?

Otoplasty is one of the very few plastic surgeries that can be performed during childhood. A child may have this procedure once their ears have reached full physical development. This usually occurs by age 6. The benefit of otoplasty being done in childhood is that it saves the child from unnecessary stress or teasing related to the appearance of their ears.

What Our Patients Have to Say

"The staff and the physician very knowledgeable and made me feel at ease"

- Anonymous

How is Ear Pinning Performed?

Otoplasty is not a singular procedure that is performed the same way in every situation. Various shaping and repositioning techniques may be used depending on the objective of surgery.

Dr. Salzman makes the necessary incisions behind the ears. The cartilage of the ears is reshaped and secured internally using non-dissolvable sutures.

After the ears have been stabilized internally, external stitches are made to close incisions. These sutures should dissolve in one to two weeks. Finally, a dressing is placed over the ears to protect them from accidental bumps.

How Long Does Otoplasty Take?

The otoplasty procedure may take approximately 2 hours.

Does Ear Surgery Require Anesthesia?

The procedure is performed in our state of the art, nationally certified outpatient operating suite under anesthesia so the patient is comfortable and resting. They will not remember their procedure once the effects of anesthesia wear off.

What is the Recovery Process Like After Otoplasty?

The recovery period after otoplasty is brief. By one-week post-surgery, patients can go back to work or school with very few activity restrictions. For a day or two after surgery, patients can expect to feel sore or tender. Swelling is present but is not seen due to the compression dressing that is worn at all times. Pain medication may be taken to manage post-operative discomfort. A post-op visit takes place about one week after surgery. It is at this appointment when the compression dressing is removed for good. From that point, the patient may wear a headband to continue protecting the ears from accidental tugs, pressure, and bumps. Our staff is available to answer questions that may arise during otoplasty recovery.

What Results Should I Expect From Otoplasty?

Swelling is visible after otoplasty, but so are the changes that have been made. Patients can immediately appreciate better shape and projection of the ears. The full enjoyment of the outcome of otoplasty takes place about a week after surgery, when the dressing and compression can be worn at night only, rather than all day. The new shape and projection of the ears are permanent.

Will I Have Scarring After Ear Pinning Surgery?

Scarring is an inevitable part of surgical outcomes. The incisions made during otoplasty are well hidden in the crease between the backs of the ears and the head. If a front incision is needed, it is made as discreetly as possible. Over time, incision scars fade to be barely perceptible.

What Are the Potential Risks and Complications of Ear Pinning Surgery?

The risks associated with otoplasty include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Adverse reaction to anesthesia
  • Asymmetrical outcome
  • Raised scarring
  • Reduced sensation around the ears
  • Extrusion of internal sutures that requires additional treatment
  • The most common side effects that occur after otoplasty include:
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Bruising
  • Soreness or tenderness

All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.

Schedule a Consultation Today

To learn more about our Otoplasty procedures or about any of our other face procedures, call us today at 502-425-5200 to schedule a consultation. Salzman Cosmetic Surgery and Spa is proud to serve Louisville, KY and the surrounding areas.

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