Plastic Surgeon Serving North Andover, Boston, Haverhill, MA - Nashua, Salem, Manchester, NH & Nearby Areas
What problems can otoplasty correct?
Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, can reshape ears that protrude too far away from the sides of the head, re-create absent or underdeveloped ear folds, or reduce oversized ears.
How is otoplasty performed?
Typically, an ear is reshaped through an incision placed in the natural fold behind the ear. Through this incision, the ear cartilage is contoured and adjusted with a combination of incisions and sutures that bend and reposition the cartilage. Ears that require size reduction may also have incisions at the ear lobe or along the edge of ear folds. Ear incisions usually heal very well and scar visibility is minimal after healing is complete.
Will otoplasty affect hearing?
Otoplasty is a safe procedure and it does not affect hearing.
Who is a good candidate for otoplasty?
Ideal candidates for otoplasty should be in generally good health. They should have healthy ear tissue. Children may have otoplasty starting at around age six. At that age, ear growth is nearly complete and otoplasty may be considered. During your initial consultation with Dr. Chatson, your candidacy for this procedure can be determined.
What is recovery from otoplasty like?
Recovery from ear surgery requires that the patient protect the ears from forceful movement that may disrupt the sutures that are holding the ear cartilage in the reshaped position. Patients find it useful to sleep in a headband for up to six weeks postoperatively and to wear the headband during the day if inadvertent movement of the ear may take place. Some mild discomfort and swelling are common after otoplasty. Dr. Chatson will provide you with medications to reduce your pain. Office follow-up visits are required in order to ensure the best possible healing.
What are the risks of otoplasty?
General surgical risks such as bleeding and infection are possible with any surgery. Risks specific to otoplasty include:
- Slight residual asymmetry
- Recurrence of ear shape abnormality
These risks are rare, but not impossible.
Dr. Chatson performs all of his surgical procedures in an accredited surgical facility. This helps reduce your risk of surgical complications. Dr. Chatson has been performing otoplasty for over 17 years on children and adults and takes great care to provide naturally beautiful results.
For otoplasty near Lowell and Andover, Massachusetts, please call 978-687-1151. For service in Nashua, Manchester, or Salem, New Hampshire, please call 603-882-2103 , or contact George P. Chatson, MD, online to schedule a consultation.
