Ear Surgery
Consultations offered at our four convenient locations in Edison, Marlboro, Warren and West Orange, NJ
Ears that protrude too far can be a source self-consciousness to many people. In our New Jersey office, otoplasty can be performed in patients from the age of 6 up through adulthood.
At age 6, the ear has reached most of its adult size, so undergoing surgery at this age will not cause any problems with the ears later in life. Many adults have otoplasty done because they have never liked their ears and now are finally ready to improve them.
Before and After Photos
Procedure
This form of facial surgical correction utilizes a hidden incision behind the ear to reposition the ears closer to the head. The repositioning may involve creating a bend in the upper ear called the antihelix, which sometimes doesn’t form fully during development. Also, surgical correction of the “bowl” area of the ear, or concha, can reduce significant cupping of the ear and create a more natural ear that is closer to the head. The earlobe may be changed so it doesn’t stick out as much.
The surgery is easy to go through, usually requiring IV sedation and lasting about one and a half hours. The pain is minimal, and recovery takes about a week.
Recovery
Recovery after otoplasty is fairly quick. The dressing is removed the next day and an athletic headband is worn for one week all day and night. It can be removed for cleaning for a short time every day. After the first week, it should be worn at night for the next month. The pain is usually minimal, and some swelling and bruising is normal, but most of it resolves in one week, when most patients return to normal activity.
Contact
Find out if ear reshaping is right for you or your child. Please call 732-548-3200 or complete the online form on this page to arrange a consultation. Associates in Plastic Surgery maintains multiple convenient offices in New Jersey.
