Otoplasty
(Ear Surgery) for Sacramento, Granite Bay, & Coeur d'Alene

There are three major areas of the ear: the upper, middle, and lower third of the ear. During your consultation, Dr. Coscia will talk with you about these procedures in great detail and how it relates to you. A generalized overview is provided here. For cases involving the upper third of the ear, the ear often folds over and cups outward. This is oftentimes treated by application of sutures that help to recreate a portion of the ear called the antihelix. These sutures are placed under the skin that reshape the cartilage itself and are never removed. In the middle third of the ear, excessive depth of the concha bowl portion of the ear is often involved. This is treated by resection of a portion of the conchal bowl and the addition of sutures that help to anchor the conchal bowl back onto the surface of the head. Finally, the lower third or the earlobe can also be angled inappropriately causing it to protrude forward. There are various skin and soft tissue excision techniques designed to remove and reorient a portion of the earlobe to give it better cosmetic proportion and positioning. In protruding ears, one or all of these attributes can be present and need treatment.

What Procedures Can be Combined with Otoplasty?

Oftentimes otoplasty is performed alone, as it is the primary area of concern for that patient. However, in adults any other procedure may be combined with otoplasty.

What Type of Anesthesia is Used for this Procedure?

The type of anesthesia used for an otoplasty will be discussed on a patient-to-patient basis. It also depends on whether it is an adult or a child. However, both IV sedation and general anesthesia are used for otoplasty.

What Should I Expect After Otoplasty?

With otoplasty surgery, postoperative care is aimed at preventing a hematoma, a collection of blood under the skin. Therefore, a bulky compressive dressing is necessary for the first week after surgery. This also helps to prevent any trauma to the ear that can interfere with sutures and healing tissue. This bulky dressing will be taken down after approximately seven days, the ear reevaluated, and then a lighter dressing placed for an additional seven days. After that point, no dressing will be needed during the daytime; however, a strap will be worn at night for protection while sleeping for the next couple of weeks.

What Can Otoplasty Correct?

Otoplasty improves the shape, position, or proportion of the ears. Although protruding ears are one of the most common reasons for surgery, the procedure can address several cosmetic concerns. You may consider otoplasty if your ears project noticeably from the sides of your head, appear disproportionately large, have an unusual fold or shape, or are noticeably asymmetrical.

The goal of ear surgery is not to create identical ears or dramatically change your appearance. Instead, Dr. Coscia develops a surgical plan to better balance your ears with your facial features. Depending on your anatomy, treatment may involve reshaping cartilage, repositioning the ears closer to the head, or addressing specific areas such as the upper ear, conchal bowl, or earlobe.

Who Is a Candidate for Otoplasty?

Surgeons can perform otoplasty on both children and adults. In children, surgeons generally consider surgery once the ears have developed enough to undergo correction. Emotional readiness is also important. A child should understand the procedure at an age-appropriate level and cooperate with postoperative instructions, including wearing protective dressings.

Adults may pursue otoplasty at virtually any age if they are in appropriate health for surgery. You may have been self-conscious about prominent ears since childhood or simply decided later in life that you are ready to address them.

During your consultation, Dr. Coscia evaluates your ear anatomy, overall health, concerns, and expectations to determine whether otoplasty is appropriate and which surgical technique may best accomplish your goals.

What Should You Expect During Otoplasty Recovery?

Protecting the ears is especially important during the early stages of recovery. Dr. Coscia uses a compressive dressing for approximately the first week to protect the ears and reduce the risk of a hematoma, or collection of blood beneath the skin. After we evaluate your ears, you will generally wear a lighter headband for another week. We may then recommend a protective strap at night for the following weeks.

Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and temporary changes in sensation can occur as your ears heal. You will receive individualized instructions regarding sleeping position, bathing, physical activity, and when you can return to work, school, or exercise.