EAR SURGERY

What is ear surgery?

Cosmetic surgery of the ear is used when patients have prominent ears, which makes them feel self-conscious.  What we do is pin back the ears so they are closer to the face and don’t pop out as much. Prominent ears can be a cause of bullying in school children, which is why it is one of the few cosmetic surgery procedures that can be performed in children. Children over 6 years old can get this surgery done.

Am I a candidate for this procedure?

If you feel your ears are very prominent for your face, this procedure is right for you.  Some women use their long hair to cover the ears so as not to show their shape and prominence. This is no way to live.  Ear surgery is a very simple procedure, which can change you or your children’s life.

What do I need to know about this procedure?

It is a simple one-hour procedure.  In children it is usually performed under general anesthesia, but in adults local anesthesia can be used. The incisions are placed in the back of the ears so that they are almost invisible to anyone.  Through this incision the ear is pinned back with sutures to achieve long lasting results. In some patients a small anterior incision strategically placed might be necessary for better results.

Are there risks involved?

Every patient that goes into an operating room for surgery needs to be aware that risks do exist.  However, complications in this specific procedure are extremely rare.  Dr. Mejia will go over all the possible risks of this procedure with you during the initial consultation.  It is very important that you are honest with Dr. Mejia about your medical history and habits for things to go as smooth as possible.

What is the aftercare like?

After surgery you will leave with heavy bandages around your ears. These will come off the next day post op and will be replaced with a headband. This headband is meant to protect your new ears. It should be worn 24/7 for the first week and then only at nights for the next two weeks.  It is recommended to sleep with your head elevated (2-3 pillows) for the first three nights to help with the swelling.

You can take regular showers and wash your hair, being very careful not to hurt yourself.  No stitches need to be removed since everything used is dissolvable.  Avoid heavy exercising for the first 3-4 weeks.

How much downtime is there?

Patients can usually go back to their normal activities 7 days after surgery.  Final results are seen 3-6 months after surgery when all the swelling disappears.