Do you want to feel more comfortable and confident with the shape of your ears?
Ear pinning surgery, also known as otoplasty, can help enhance the appearance of your ears and bring them closer to your head. In this blog, we will guide you through everything you need to know about ear pinning surgery – from understanding the procedure and preparing for it, to what to expect during recovery.
So, let’s dive in.
What is Ear Pinning Surgery?
Ear pinning surgery, or otoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at permanently drawing the ears closer to the head, thereby minimizing ears that stick out and correcting any imbalance or asymmetry. Typically performed under general anesthesia, this elective operation is often chosen by individuals who seek to reduce the prominence of their protruding ears and enhance their overall appearance.
Who is a Good Candidate for Ear Pinning Surgery?
If you’re unhappy with the way your ears stick out and desire a more balanced and harmonious facial profile, you may be a good candidate for ear pinning surgery.
Most commonly, this procedure is performed on teens and children, but really there is no limitation. The ideal candidates for this procedure are men and women of all ages who have fully developed ears and are in good overall health.
Preparing for Ear Pinning Surgery
A consultation with a plastic surgeon at Plastic Surgical Associates is essential to determine your candidacy and evaluate your specific concerns and expectations.
During your consultation, you will discuss your motivations for the procedure, your desired outcome, and your medical history, including any allergies, health issues, and previous surgeries. Our team may also take pictures of your ears to assess the optimal surgical approach.
In preparation for the procedure, your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions, which may include getting a physical exam or blood tests to ensure your overall health and discontinuing certain medications, such as blood thinners, in the days leading up to the surgery.
It is important to follow these instructions diligently to maximize the success of the procedure and minimize any potential risks.
What Happens During Ear Pinning Surgery?
Once you are ready for the procedure, ear pinning surgery typically takes about two hours to complete. Under general anesthesia, a skilled plastic surgeon will make incisions either on the back or front of your ears, depending on the specific case.
The surgeon will then weaken or remove the skin or cartilage responsible for the protrusion, creating a more defined fold at the back of your ears. The ears will be repositioned to the desired place and secured with permanent sutures. In most cases, the procedure involves treating both ears to achieve symmetry.
Following the surgery, sterile dressings and a compression bandage will be applied to the incisions. These bandages protect the wounds, promote proper healing, and help maintain the desired ear position during the recovery period.
Recovery and Outlook
After ear pinning surgery, you will gradually wake up from anesthesia. It is normal to experience discomfort, such as throbbing or itching, in your ears. Your healthcare provider will provide pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. In the immediate post-surgery period, it is essential to keep the ear bandages in place to protect the wounds and facilitate the desired effects of the procedure.
You will typically remain in the recovery room for a few hours to ensure you are alert, breathing well, and stable before being released to go home. To aid in a smooth recovery, it is advisable to have someone accompany you and drive you home. Swelling, itching, and numbness may persist for several days or weeks following the surgery, but these symptoms will gradually resolve over time.
During the recovery period, it is important to gently wash your face, ears, and hair. If you get your ear pinning surgery at Plastic Surgical Associates, our team will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the incisions, including any recommended antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
In some cases, a supportive headband may be recommended to hold your ears in place, especially when sleeping. It is essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently to ensure an optimal recovery and achieve the desired results.
Schedule Your Ear Pinning Consultation at Plastic Surgical Associates
If you are considering ear pinning surgery to address concerns about asymmetry, we invite you to schedule a consultation with experienced plastic surgeons in Fort Collins.
Our team of skilled professionals will provide you with personalized care and guide you through every step of the ear pinning journey. Take the first step towards feeling more confident and achieving the harmonious appearance you desire.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how ear pinning surgery can help you reclaim your self-esteem and enhance your overall facial profile.
