Ear Surgery for Protruding or Large Ears

Otoplasty

The First Step: Choose a Surgeon You Can Trust

Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures safe and successful results. Look for a surgeon certified by the Mexican Council of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and a full member of the Mexican Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. These qualifications demonstrate the surgeon’s expertise and commitment to staying updated with the latest techniques.

Who Are Candidates for Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is typically performed to reshape protruding ears or reduce the size of overly large ears. This surgery is most commonly performed on children between 4 and 14 years of age. However, ear surgery is also possible for adults, with no significant age-related risks. Both protruding and excessively large ears can be corrected through surgery.

Planning Your Surgery

Parents should be mindful of their child’s feelings about their ears. It’s important not to push for surgery unless the child genuinely wants to change their appearance. Children who are self-conscious about their ears are usually more cooperative during the procedure and more satisfied with the results.

During your initial consultation:

• I will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate procedure for your specific case.
• I will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Otoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. In some cases, an overnight stay may be recommended.

• For young children: General anesthesia is typically recommended to keep them asleep throughout the procedure.
• For older children and adults: Local anesthesia combined with a sedative is often the best choice, allowing them to remain awake but relaxed.

The surgery usually takes 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. The specific steps include:

1. Incision: An incision is made behind the ear to expose the cartilage.
2. Cartilage Reshaping: The cartilage is sculpted and bent closer to the head. In some cases, a portion of the cartilage may be removed if necessary.
3. Closure: Sutures are used to close the incision and maintain the new shape.

Other Ear Concerns

In addition to protruding ears, otoplasty can address other ear-related issues:

• "Lop ears": Where the upper part of the ear folds forward or backward.
• "Cupped ears": Very small ears or those without defined inner or outer folds.
• Large or narrow earlobes: Ears with folds or wrinkles can also be corrected.
• Reconstructive ear surgery: Creating new ears for those who have lost them in accidents or were born without them.

Ask me about how surgery can be effective for your specific condition.

Recovery

Both children and adults typically return to normal activities within a few hours after surgery. However, some parents may choose to stay overnight in the hospital with their child to ensure all effects of the anesthesia have worn off.

• Large dressings are not required, and patients can bathe and wash their hair the day after surgery.
• Mild itching or discomfort in the ears may occur but will subside with medication.
• Sutures will be removed or dissolve within a week.
• Activities that could bend or damage the ears should be avoided for about a month.
• Most adults can return to work after 5 days, and children can resume school within the same timeframe, provided they are careful during play.

Your New Look

Most patients, both young and old, are highly satisfied with the results of otoplasty. It’s important to remember that the goal is improvement, not perfection. Absolute symmetry is neither natural nor achievable. However, you’ll be delighted with the enhancement to your appearance.