Cosmetic Ear Surgery – Ears were created as a functional piece for us to hear. Normally people don’t notice the ears due to their non-prominent position on a person’s face. However, if ears protrude, are too large, or are warped it can attract more attention than normal. Those with un-proportionate or deformed ears can feel a lack of confidence.
If these feelings apply to you, or even your child, ear surgery may be the answer. Ear surgery can be performed to improve the proportion, shape, or position of ears. It improves the appearance of ears that can be defected from birth or due to injury. Even minor adjustments to improve the natural shape of the ear or create proportion to the face can improve a person’s appearance and self esteem drastically.
This page provides an overview of ear surgery. The best way to learn more about the process is to consult with a plastic surgeon. Be sure he/she is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
What is Ear Surgery?
The most common ear imperfection is protruding ears. It can occur on one ear or both, to different degrees. This condition causes ears to look larger than they really are. It’s a defect in appearance and does not affect the actual functionality of a person’s ears. Ear surgery is a plastic surgery process performed to correct this condition.
Other ear defects are less common and may affect a person’s ability to hear. A lop ear or cup ear, also known as a constricted ear is a deformity with a lowered ear position, reduced ear circumference, folding or flatting of the upper rim, and protruding ears with varying degrees. An abnormal position of the superior crus causes ears to be distorted in shape. This is a rare condition called Stahl’s ear. Cryptotia or hidden ear is an ear deformity in which the upper rim of the ear is buried beneath a fold of scalp.
The most complicated ear deformity is called Microtia. In this congenital defect, the outer ear is very small and underdeveloped. Depending on the degree of this defect, it can close off the ear canal causing impaired hearing. Ear surgery for this condition is a more complex process sometimes requiring multiple procedures to create a more normal looking ear and improve hearing.
Cosmetic Ear Surgery – Who is this Procedure For?
Un-proportional, disfigured, or protruding ears can be corrected using ear surgery for anyone as young as 5 years old. At this age, the cartilage in a child’s ear is usually stable enough for plastic surgery. Candidates who are most likely to achieve maximum results are:
- Healthy, do not have any medical conditions or life-threatening illnesses, do not have untreated chronic ear conditions
- Non-smokers
- Positive about the process and have reasonable and definite goals for improving the appearance or functionality the ears
If candidates are children, they should be cooperative and good at following directions. They should also be able to communicate their feelings and they shouldn’t object to the idea of surgery when it’s discussed.