South Sound Oral Surgery

Otoplasty for Protruding Ears

The treatment of protruding ears, otoplasty, is a very rewarding procedure for both the surgeon and the patient.  Teenagers and adults with protruding ears often feel self-conscious, or even report pain with wearing hats and headphones.  Children with protruding ears are often teased by their peers which can lead to serious body image problems, or in extreme cases, psychological problems. The ear develops to its mature size early in childhood and most children can have corrective surgery by 7 years of age.

the otoplasty procedure

The procedure is done in our surgery center under intravenous or inhalational general anesthesia.  All incisions are made behind the ear.  Depending upon the procedure, recovery is usually several days. The patient will wear a tennis type headband for several days and at night for another week. Female patients can hide the ear with long hair and return to work in as little as 48 hours. Generally, patients will refrain from strenuous exercise for 2 weeks.  Depending on the procedure some patients will have sutures that are removed 14 days after surgery.