BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON IN RENO

Otoplasty is the term that describes surgical techniques that modify the shape, size, or position of the ears. The procedure may correct a deformity or alter the ear to make it more aesthetically pleasing and proportionate with the head.

Otoplasty is one of the few cosmetic procedures that are appropriate for children. By the age of 6, the ears have nearly reached full physical maturity. It is at this time, as well, when a child may be most vulnerable to teasing. Surgery at this age is advisable for children who may be made to feel uncomfortable about the appearance of their ears. If a child is not bothered by their appearance and is not affected by comments made by their peers, it may not be necessary to consider otoplasty at this young of an age. Surgery can be performed at any time a patient is ready, during childhood or adulthood.

Most children require general anesthesia for the procedure, however, most teenagers and adults may undergo otoplasty surgery in Dr. Dahan's office under local anesthesia. Dr. Dahan reshapes the ears giving them a more normal and natural contour as well as folding them back closer to the patient's head.* Dr. Dahan's patients exhibit a significant increase in confidence and self-esteem after otoplasty surgery.* Dr. Dahan is always touched when he sees his female patients wearing their hair up and male patients wearing their hair short proudly exposing their ears which they would rarely do prior to otoplasty surgery.

Otoplasty is commonly performed on children ages 5 and up with fully developed ears, teenagers and even adults. The majority are people with bilateral (both) ear deformities, however, some people only require otoplasty surgery on one ear. Those who are candidates to undergo otoplasty surgery wish to correct the following deformities:

• Protruding ears.
• Large ears.
• Asymmetrical (uneven) ears.
• Irregular shaped ears.
• Ears that are out of proportion.

Otoplasty surgery does not hurt. Pediatric patients typically undergo otoplasty with general anesthesia that creates a deep sleep state. Teens and adults can undergo this procedure in the office or outpatient setting with only a local anesthetic and mild sedative to help soothe their nerves.

Otoplasty is beneficial for several reasons.

The procedure can correct several problems. Otoplasty is often performed to correct very large or very small ears, "cauliflower ear," cupped, folded, or protruding ears and other deformities.

It's safe. Otoplasty is observed as one of the safest surgeries in all of medicine. Very few surgeries have a low level of risk found with otoplasty.

Ear reshaping makes the patient feel “normal.” Changing the physical shape of the ears results in psychological benefits, too. In one study, 97% of patients reported increased happiness after otoplasty. Ninety-two percent reported increased self-confidence, while 79% reported improved social comfort. Importantly, 100% of the patients in this study reported that bullying and teasing significantly diminished or stopped altogether.

All surgery carries some risk. Otoplasty patients are made aware of risks such as:

• Infection and bleeding.
• Scarring. Otoplasty scars are hidden in the creases of the ears or behind the ears, where they are not visible even with short hair or hair is worn in a ponytail.
• Asymmetry. Otoplasty may not fully correct asymmetry, or may result in symmetry due to tissue changes during recovery.
• Changes in skin sensation. This is usually a temporary side effect of surgery.
• Problems with stitches. Sometimes, the stitches placed to secure the ears come to the surface and need to be removed.
• Overcorrection. It is possible to position the ears too close to the head, resulting in an obviously pinned look.

Dr. Dahan has performed numerous ear surgeries for patients in our Reno office. His advanced training in plastic surgery enables him to reconstruct tissue accordingly to achieve the best possible results.