Ears are a prominent feature. When they are abnormally large or protruding excessively, they can cause an individual to feel self-conscious. Children in particular are often victims of teasing or bullying because they look different. Advancements in techniques and technology have made it easier to address this issue. The appearance of large and protruding ears can be altered with safe and effective otoplasty procedures.

Benefits of Otoplasty

The eye is drawn to symmetry and balance. Even though everyone by nature is asymmetrical to one degree or another, too much or too little can be off-putting. In the same way a very large nose can draw unwanted attention to that feature of the face, large ears or ears that stick out noticeably can also be a source of concern.

A child’s self-confidence can plummet when the teasing begins. Children can be cruel with their words and actions, and prominent ears can make a child an easy target. Such negative experiences can be the source of emotional and psychological problems for some children.

In order to avoid these types of situations, many parents choose to address the issue before the child begins school. Usually by age five, most children’s ears have reached their full growth.
The ears must reach their full growth before otoplasty can be performed. In most cases, this is a simple procedure. Size or position of the ears can usually be changed in two hours or less.
Children who have the procedure before attending school full time are spared the bullying and teasing that can come from having unusual ears. At any age, people who undergo otoplasty often have a sense of relief and a boost in self-esteem.

Common Types of Otoplasty

There are three main types of otoplasty. Ear augmentation is a procedure that enlarges the pinna, or outer ear, when it is too small or non-existent. This condition is known as microtia. The opposite, macrotia, is the condition of having large pinna. The third otoplasty addresses protruding ears. Also known as pinning back the ears, it is called otoplasty and serves to move protruding ears closer to the head.

Children with protruding ears or ears that are too big or too small for their head may benefit from otoplasty, especially if they are the subject of negative attention. Schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Jones for more information about the procedure.