An otoplasty is best known as an ear set back and
is used to correct the prominent, hooded, floppy, or dumbo ear.
Congenital ear deformities can be corrected after the age of five
since the ear achieves adult size at this age and surgery performed
before the age of ten is usually covered by insurance.
Surgery
Surgery takes about one hour to perform. The
main portion of your surgery is performed in the deep crease
behind your ear where the scars can be concealed. From this
incision, the bowl is reduced and the ear is set back closer
to the skull.
Recovery
Following surgery, your ears will be dressed in wet cotton in
order to create a mold for the new ear and a large head dressing
is applied. This is done to ensure even, firm, pressure which
prevents bleeding and maintains the new shape. Dressings are
removed in two days and a head band is required for two weeks.
Your ears will look good immediately. You must
be careful following surgery since the new shape is not permanent
until all healing has taken place, about four to six weeks following
surgery. After six weeks, you can resume normal activity.
Dr. Manchester's San Diego office is conveniently placed near:
