An otoplasty procedure, or ear surgery, can provide many men, women, and children a solution for ears that are too large, too small, misshapen, or overly prominent. An ear surgery is intended to correct many different ear-related aesthetic issues. For the right patient, this procedure can be personalized to deliver dramatic improvements to the shape, size, prominence, and overall appearance of the ears. Before deciding if otoplasty is the right choice for you or your child, you should start with a one-on-one consultation with a board certified facial plastic surgeon. In the meantime, understanding the truth behind many common myths about the procedure could help you on your way.
Ear Surgery Is Only for Adults
The otoplasty procedure is unique in many ways, but most especially because it is possible to perform it on children. Once the ears are fully shaped and developed, a child can be considered an eligible patient for otoplasty. Ear surgery can help children who are teased for their big or protruding ears. It can be applied to correct birth defects and congenital deformities. Speak with a facial plastic surgeon who take younger otoplasty patients to learn more about what changes might be appropriate for your child.
Ear Surgery Is Only for Protruding Ears
While ear-pinning procedures are very common among otoplasty patients, this approach is not the only chance that can be made to the ears. The ears are made of soft tissue and cartilage, which can be molded and reshaped, added or subtracted. Under the skilled hands of a facial plastic surgeon, your ears can be reshaped, resized, and more to create the symmetrical, balanced appearance you desire.
Ear Surgery Is Only Performed Under General Anesthesia
While younger patients are almost always best served by general anesthetics during an otoplasty procedure, it is not required by all patients. Your facial plastic surgeon will evaluate your or your child’s circumstances to determine which sedation methods will work best. For many adult patients, light sedation and local anesthetics are enough to perform surgery comfortably.
Ear Surgery Is Only a One-Time Procedure
Many times, an ear surgery can be performed just once and achieve the patient’s desired results. This is very true in situations where minor changes are needed. In other cases, especially surgeries that involve ear-pinning, a multi-step process may be necessary to achieve the optimum results. Pulling the ears back too far too quickly will be less effective. The procedure is often done in two to four visits, but will depend on the degree of change needed.
How to Plan Your Otoplasty Surgery
When you’re ready to consider the changes that are possible through ear surgery, start with an expert in the field who can help you to glimpse your future results. The Canfield VECTRA 3D imaging system can be used to give you a preview of the results you can expect after your treatment. Dr. Rubinstein will use a 3D photograph of you to make appropriate visual alterations and give you a clearer idea of your anticipated results. This strategy can help you to decide on the right treatment for you.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To learn more about your surgical options, contact Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists. Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein is a facial plastic surgeon that can provide the guidance you need. Please contact us either by email or calling 845-863-1772. Dr. Rubinstein’s practice, Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists, has two locations in New York, one in Newburgh and one in Manhattan.
Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein has been practicing in the Hudson Valley for more than 15 years and specializes in esthetic laser producers, facial plastic surgery, nasal, and sinus disorders. He uniquely combines his medical and surgical expertise to help patients feel better and look better. He holds dual board-certification from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, is a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, and is an Assistant Professor at New York Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.
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