How to Get Otoplasty

Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery technique that reshapes the ears. It is most often performed on children that have been born with misshapen ears that stick out or that are very large. Adults can also opt to get otoplasty.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Meet with a plastic surgeon and discuss if otoplasty is the right choice. The surgeon can give you an idea of what type of changes your appearance will undergo and outline any risks associated with the procedure.
2. Prepare for the surgery. For otoplasty, there are usually few pre-op instructions that you must follow. For patients getting general anesthesia, you won't be able to eat or drink anything the night before.
3. Expect general anesthesia if otoplasty is being done on a young child. Adults will most likely be given a sedative along with local anesthesia.
4. Get otoplasty done in an outpatient facility. The surgery takes a couple of hours to complete and involves an incision being made in order to expose the cartilage. The cartilage will be manipulated to the shape that is desired and then the ear will be closed with stitches.
5. Follow all of the surgeon's instructions to speed along your recovery. You may be prescribed a pain medication as well as instructed to wear a bandage on the ear until the area has healed.

Tips & Warnings

• Otoplasty carries a low risk of side effects. In rare cases, patients may develop a blood clot in the ear or an infection in the cartilage.
• You should discuss the surgery with your child at length before committing to it. The child should want the surgery as well.