Otoplasty or ear surgery is one of the few plastic surgery procedures recommended for young children. This procedure can be used to adjust the size or the projection of ears, bringing balance and symmetry to the facial profile. Because the procedure is frequently performed on children, Dr. Kaweski at Aesthetic Arts Institute of Plastic Surgery often recommends this procedure during the summer months to allow for plenty of healing time before the child returns to school. With summer just around the corner, now may be the time to consider otoplasty for your child.
The Otoplasty Difference
Protruding or excessively large ears can be a significant source of embarrassment for children and adults alike. Although the issue is primarily cosmetic, teasing and bullying as a result of irregular ears can lead to psychological effects like loss of self-esteem and poor academic performance. For this reason, otoplasty is typically recommended around the age of five. Since the ears are fully developed by this age, the procedure can be both safe and effective, while preventing teasing once the child heads to school.
Otoplasty is a relatively straightforward plastic surgery procedure that addresses ears that protrude or are too large. The procedure may also be performed to correct ears that fold over at the top, known as a lop ear. All of the techniques used for otoplasty involve incisions that are carefully hidden behind the ear or in the ear’s natural folds, minimizing visible scarring after the procedure. Otoplasty on children is usually performed under general anesthesia, on an outpatient basis.
Otoplasty Recovery
Regardless of the technique used for otoplasty, the recovery process is very similar. Although children will likely feel up to activities within a few short days, they are often self-conscious about the dressings that must be worn for the first few weeks to ensure the ears heal properly. A special compression dressing is applied first, which is usually removed within a day or two and replaced with a special headband that protects the ears and keeps them in the proper position during the recovery process.
Many children do not want to venture far from home during the time they have to wear the dressings. Physical activities and exercise may also be prohibited for a number of weeks after the procedure, to prevent complications and promote faster healing. Summer can be a good time to let children relax and recuperate at home. By the time school begins, most children are fully healed and confident about seeing their friends and starting the new school year.
Otoplasty is an effective procedure for correcting ear irregularities in even young children. If you believe your child is ready for this procedure, contact Aesthetic Arts Institute of Plastic Surgery at 855-337-6988 to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Kaweski today.
