Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is a common procedure that helps reshape and reposition the ears to improve their appearance. This surgery is common among children who are born with prominent, misshapen, or overly large ears.

Here’s everything you need to know about otoplasty and how it can help your child.

Reasons for Otoplasty in Children

Otoplasty is generally done for aesthetic reasons. The surgery is a good option for children who feel self-conscious of their ears, or those who have been teased or bullied because of the way their ears look.

Otoplasty can help reshape and resize the ears to make them appear more proportional to the child’s face, and bring them closer to the head.

Aside from the cosmetic benefits, otoplasty can also be done for functional reasons. If your child has ear deformities that cause hearing problems or pain, an otoplasty can help correct these issues and improve your child’s quality of life.

Who is a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?

Children above the age of five are generally good candidates for otoplasty. This is because by age five, the ear cartilage is fully developed and the surgery is less likely to affect the ears’ growth and development in the future.

Good candidates for otoplasty also include children who are in good overall health, without any chronic medical conditions that may increase the risk of complications associated with the surgery.

Preparation for Otoplasty

Before an otoplasty, consult with your child’s surgeon to discuss your child’s medical history and avoid any medications, supplements or herbs that may cause bleeding before the surgery.

You should also avoid exposing your child to any contagious illnesses before the surgery, to reduce the risk of infection during or after the surgery.

The Otoplasty Procedure

The otoplasty procedure usually takes one to two hours, depending on the extent of the ear surgery. The procedure is normally done on an outpatient basis, so your child can go home the same day.

The surgery typically involves the following steps:.

The surgeon will make incisions behind the ears to access and reshape the ear cartilage.
The surgeon will then bring the ear closer to the head, and trim away any excess skin, creating a more natural ear contour.
The surgeon will close the incisions with dissolvable stitches, and your child will be placed in a bandage around the head for support and protection.

Recovering from Otoplasty

Following the otoplasty, your child may experience some mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with medication and cold compresses.

Your child will also need to wear a headband for a few weeks to ensure that the ear heals in its new position.

Your child should avoid strenuous activities or sports, or any activities that may cause trauma to the ears such as contact sports, for at least four to six weeks following the surgery.

Benefits and Risks of Otoplasty

The benefits of otoplasty for children are significant. The surgery can improve your child’s self-esteem and quality of life, by helping them feel more confident and less self-conscious about their appearance.

However, as with any surgery, there are some risks associated with otoplasty. These risks may include bleeding, infection, scarring, or asymmetry.

These risks can be minimized by following all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by your child’s surgeon to the letter.

Cost of Otoplasty and Insurance Coverage

The cost of otoplasty varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the surgeon’s experience. Prices range from $3,000 to $5,000.

Most insurance plans do not cover the cost of otoplasty, but your child’s surgeon can help you explore alternative payment options and financing plans.

The Bottom Line

Otoplasty can be a life-changing procedure for children born with prominent or misshapen ears. The surgery can improve your child’s self-esteem and quality of life, as well as correct functional ear problems.

If you are considering otoplasty for your child, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss the risks and benefits, and ensure that your child is a good candidate for the procedure.