Ear pinning is a cosmetic surgery procedure that can be accomplished using different techniques. The choice of technique may depend on the required degree of correction in the patient’s ear. The ear surgery procedure steps may slightly vary according to the type of technique used.
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will explain the procedure steps to the patient to help them make an informed decision. Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Eric Yavrouian provides ear surgery to patients in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills CA, and surrounding communities.
Anesthesia
Ear pinning and ear reshaping cosmetic surgery is a relatively less invasive procedure requiring only a local anesthetic with sedation in case of adults. However, when otoplasty is performed on a child, it will usually involve general anesthesia.
A qualified anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will be present throughout the surgery to monitor the patient’s response in case of general anesthesia. The entire procedure is usually completed in about two hours or less.
Incision and Cartilage Reshaping
After anesthesia, the surgeon will begin the procedure by making an incision behind the ear. Incision will be placed in a concealed location with an aim to keep the subsequent scarring invisible. The purpose of the incision is to expose the cartilage, which will be then reshaped.
The reshaping will be performed delicately and with high precision to create symmetrical and proportionate shape of the ears. If the ears are oversized, the procedure may involve a significant amount of cartilage removal. Excess skin may also be removed through the incisions.
Ear Repositioning
In some cases, if the ear is protruding far from the head, it will be repositioned closer to the sides of the head after the cartilage has been reshaped. This is known as ear pinning. It will usually combine skin removal from the back of the ear, cartilage sparing, and scoring techniques. A customized combination of techniques will allow the surgeon to create a desired shape and position of the patient’s ears.
Incision Closure
Once the ear shaping procedure is completed, the surgeon will close the incisions with dissolvable stitches or sutures. The incision area will be temporarily covered with bandages. Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Yavrouian receives patients from Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills CA, and nearby areas for ear surgery.
Outpatient Procedure
Once the ear surgery procedure is completed, the patient will be moved to a monitoring area for some time. As the patient recovers from the immediate effects of surgery and anesthesia, they may be allowed to go home. They should have a responsible person accompanying them to drive them back home.
In case of children, the surgeon may usually recommend an overnight stay at the hospital to allow for closer monitoring. In case of adults, an overnight stay may only become necessary if a complication arises or the otoplasty is combined with another procedure.
Reconstructive ear surgeries may involve more steps to correct congenital deformities or injuries such as lacerations, burns, or infected and torn piercings.
For more information about treatments and procedures by Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Eric J. Yavrouian, serving patients in and around Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank and the Greater Los Angeles, CA area call 818-241-2150 or click here to contact him for a consultation.
