EAR SURGERY (OTOPLASTY)
Otoplasty (ear surgery) is a surgical procedure designed to modify and improve the size, shape, and/or position of the ears. Sometimes referred to as “ear pinning” or “ear shaping,” otoplasty is an appropriate choice for patients seeking to correct ears that are too large, ears that protrude too much, or ears that are misshapen as a result of genetics or injury. Ear protrusion is generally caused by one or more of the following factors:*
- The angle of the ear from the side of the head is larger than 35 degrees (the “ideal” angle for the ear is 20-25 degrees)
- The outer ear (pinna) has too much cartilage, causing it to protrude more than is aesthetically desirable
- The ridge of cartilage at the top of the ear sticks outward rather than folding in toward the head
Because the size and shape of one’s ears can have a significant impact on the aesthetics of the whole face, otoplasty should only be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon who is familiar with the subtle intricacies of diverse facial structures, and who understands the impact that any ear alterations will have on the rest of the face. You will find such a physician in Dr. Bryson Richards, a talented plastic surgeon whose private practice is located in Las Vegas, Nevada. While in Dr. Richards’ care, you can feel confident knowing that every precaution will be taken to ensure a safe and successful otoplasty outcome.*
OTOPLASTY PROCEDURE
Otoplasty is generally performed as an outpatient surgery under general anesthesia. During the procedure, Dr. Richards will make small incisions on the back surface of the ear or within the ear folds to minimize scarring. He will work through these incisions to mold the ear cartilage into the correct shape, and will then place internal, non-removable sutures to secure and support the newly-shaped cartilage. The surgical incisions will be sutured closed with external stitches, which will be placed very carefully to ensure there is no distortion of adjacent facial features, and that the final outcome is naturally beautiful and does not appear overly “pulled back.”*
At the completion of your ear surgery, Dr. Richards will cover the surgical site with bandages and/or dressings, which will help to keep the surgical site clean, protect it from damage, and preserve the new position of the ear during the healing process. It is important not to subject the surgical incisions to any excessive force, motion, or abrasion, as this could cause a shift in ear position and require additional corrective surgery. You can expect some degree of post-operative bruising and swelling, which should subside within 2-3 weeks. Most patients are able to resume working within a week of their otoplasty procedure, and can gradually resume their normal exercise routine in approximately 3 weeks, or as directed by Dr. Richards.*
*Results are not guaranteed or guaranteed to be permanent.
CONTACT DR. RICHARDS
Dr. Richards understands that every patient has unique medical needs and aesthetic preferences, which is why his treatment philosophy is based upon the foundational principle of individualized customization. In practice, this concept amounts to in-depth consultations, treatment plans that have been tailored to meet your specific needs, and comprehensive patient education, both before and after your otoplasty surgery.
Dr. Richards makes it a priority to spend ample time with each patient, and to be highly accessible to his patients during every phase of their cosmetic surgery experience. If you are in interested in having your ear surgery performed by Dr. Richards, please contact our office today. We look forward to speaking with you, and to scheduling your initial consultation with Dr. Richards.
