Awkwardly shaped, oversized, or protruding ears can be cause of low self-esteem and frustration for both children and adults. In many cases, the ear defects may occur by birth, but sometimes an injury to the ear may also give rise to a cosmetic deformity. Otoplasty is a stellar, verified, and known cosmetic surgery procedure to restore a natural looking and attractive shape and size of the ears.
Dr. Eric Yavrouian is an experienced facial and reconstructive surgeon providing otoplasty, commonly known as ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery. Dr. Yavrouian will adopt the latest surgical techniques to improve oddly shaped, asymmetrical or overly large ears, and produce desirable results in a less invasive. He provides otoplasty to patients in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills CA, and surrounding communities.
Suitable Candidates
Any individual who is unhappy with the appearance of conspicuous, large or oddly shaped ears may make a suitable candidate for otoplasty cosmetic surgery. The surgeon will evaluate the candidate’s overall health and fitness, facial balance and proportion, and their unique cosmetic goals. If the ear has been damaged due to an injury, the surgeon may recommend ear reconstruction along with reshaping.
Kids who have attained full growth of the ears can also be candidates for otoplasty, provided they are of an age where they can make a choice with a basic understanding of why they want to undergo the surgery. Children who feel inhibited in a social group due to the odd shape of their ears may usually seek otoplasty.
Surgical Procedure
The ear is mainly composed of cartilage, which can be manipulated surgically to create the appropriate size or shape. The surgeon will seek to create a shape that harmonizes with other facial features and is in correct proportion to the size of the head. At the same time, the surgeon will ensure that precise symmetry between the two ears is maintained during the surgery.
Prior to the otoplasty procedure, the surgeon will help the patient to form realistic expectations. The patient should know that the ears will not be a perfect match, which will anyway appear unnatural. To make the procedure natural looking and less invasive, many times the surgeon will only alter one of the ears to achieve a balanced facial appearance. But some patients may need correction in both the ears.
Once the appropriate changes are made, the surgeon will place sutures in discreet locations to close the incisions. These are usually removed a week after the surgery. Incisions are typically made behind the ear to ensure minimal scarring. Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Yavrouian receives patients from Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills CA, and nearby areas for otoplasty.
Recovery
Most patients will be able to return to their regular activities or go back to work in about one week after otoplasty surgery. Minor swelling in the incision areas will resolve gradually over a few weeks. The patient should avoid vigorous head movements and strenuous exercises for at least two to three weeks to allow for proper healing.
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.
