Dear Dr. Man, My son is six years old and his ears stick out. The kids in school make fun of him and he is asking to get his ears fixed. Can you tell me what types of procedures can be done to correct this problem? Is he too young to have surgery? Signed, Lindsay in Boca Raton
Dear Lindsay, Ear surgery, otherwise known as otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For school age children, large, protruding ears can be an embarrassment and the source of much teasing and ridicule from classmates. Luckily, there are procedures available to help. Most operations are performed on children between the ages of 4 and 14, since ears are almost fully grown by age 4. It is also not uncommon for adults to have this surgery. Because of the emotional aspect of having large, protruding ears, it is usually better to have the surgery earlier than later. However, there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on older patients.
Otoplasty is usually performed with local sedation in your plastic surgeon’s office. The procedure, which takes roughly 2-3 hours, requires the surgeon to remove skin and cartilage from the back of the ear. Sutures are placed behind the ear and over the repaired cartilage. Even when only one ear appears to protrude, surgery is usually performed on both ears for a better balance.
Immediately after surgery, the patient's head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage to promote the best molding and healing. Within a few days, the bulky bandages will be replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a headband. Stitches are either removed or will dissolve in about a week. Scars are well hidden. Patients are usually back to school or work in a week.
Most surgeons recommend that parents stay alert to their child's feelings about protruding ears; don't insist on the surgery until your child wants the change. Children who feel uncomfortable about their ears and want the surgery are generally more cooperative during the process and happier with the outcome.
In the initial meeting, your plastic surgeon will evaluate your child's condition and recommend the most effective technique. He or she will also give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery. Most patients, young and old alike, are very pleased with the results of ear surgery. If you've discussed the procedure and your expectations with your surgeon before the operation, chances are you will be quite pleased with the results. Good luck!
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Dr. Daniel Man is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated his life’s work to helping people look younger and improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery. He is a noted author, artist, inventor and educator. Dr. Man has been featured on major television networks, as well as national and local magazines and newspapers for his work as both a plastic surgeon and an artist. He has a successful private practice in Boca Raton, FL. For more information about Dr. Man, visit www.drman.com.
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