Otoplasty in Glastonbury, CT
Dr. Beam offers otoplasty (ear surgery) for patients in Glastonbury, Avon, Farmington, Hartford, Marlborough, New Britain, New Haven, New London, Simsbury, South Windsor, and surrounding areas of Connecticut.
Many children and adults are self-conscious about the size and shape of their ears. Children between the ages of four and fourteen may be ridiculed for ears that are large or obtrusive. Otoplasty (ear pinning surgery) can help to improve the appearance of protruding ears.
How is Otoplasty Performed?
To begin, Dr. Beam will create an incision behind the ear. From here, excess skin and cartilage is removed from behind the ear and the ear is folded and reshaped so it lies closer to the head. Finally, the incisions are sutured shut. Otoplasty is a very common procedure, and we have many patients that choose ear surgery in conjunction with other procedures such as Rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery.
How is Otoplasty Performed?
To begin, Dr. Beam will create an incision behind the ear. From here, excess skin and cartilage is removed from behind the ear and the ear is folded and reshaped so it lies closer to the head. Finally, the incisions are sutured shut. Otoplasty is a very common procedure, and we have many patients that choose ear surgery in conjunction with other procedures such as Rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery.
Am I a Good Candidate for Otoplasty?
For any cosmetic surgery, we require that you are in overall good health and that you have realistic expectations of your surgery. When you are considering ear surgery for your child, parents should be sure they have their child’s best interest in mind. If you feel otoplasty may be the solution you have been looking for to help your disproportionate ears, call today to schedule your otoplasty consultation with Dr. Beam.
What Can I Expect After Otoplasty?
Most patients experience some mild discomfort after surgery, especially when trying to sleep on their side. Fortunately, the scar during surgery is made in the crease behind your ear, so this will be virtually invisible. Discomfort should only last about a week, and oral pain medication and a headband around the ears may help this.
Otoplasty FAQs
What is the best age for otoplasty?
Dr. Beam and his expert medical team don’t believe there is a perfect age to undergo otoplasty. They are happy to provide patients with the results they desire whether they’re a child, a teen, or well into adulthood. That being said, we recommend parents wait until their children are at least seven years old before considering otoplasty, as this is typically the age at which the ears become fully developed.
How long will my ears hurt after otoplasty?
Most patients who undergo otoplasty find that their discomfort subsides within the first 48 hours following surgery. Dr. Beam and his medical team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help you or your child stay as comfortable as possible throughout the recovery period.
How do you sleep after otoplasty?
Following your otoplasty, we recommend sleeping on your back with your head elevated using pillows for at least a week after surgery. Keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling and promotes faster healing. You should also avoid sleeping on your side for at least two weeks. To make this easier, consider placing pillows on either side of your head to prevent rolling over during the night.
How long does otoplasty last?
The results of otoplasty have the potential to last a lifetime. This is because the ears are typically fully developed by the time patients undergo surgery and will not grow out of place in the future. However, it’s important to note that trauma or injury to the ears could affect your long-term results.
How can I reduce swelling after otoplasty?
To reduce swelling following otoplasty, we may recommend keeping your head elevated and applying ice to your ears on a set schedule. Dr. Beam and his medical team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help ensure a smooth and healthy recovery.
