Otoplasty or ear surgery is a procedure in which Dr. Rodwell corrects large or protruding ears. If the ears are misshapen or do not match, they can be reshaped during this surgery to better define the normal folds and contours of the ear, for example.
While otoplasty can be performed on both adults and children, it is advantageous to perform the surgery at an earlier age, when possible, to spare the teasing that often results from ear abnormalities. Generally, the procedure is safe for children over the age of 6 when the ears have reached full size.
Otoplasty requires considerable skill and experience on the part of your surgeon. Dr. Rodwell has performed many successful ear surgeries and works well with young patients.
Dr. Rodwell is a skilled surgeon with a terrific bedside manner. No one compares with this level of work.
If your earlobes have been torn or stretched, however, Dr. Rodwell performs a specialized earlobe repair surgery for that issue. For patients with elongated or sagging earlobes due to aging, he offers earlobe reduction to restore earlobes to normal size.
Why consider Otoplasty?
- Reduce the size of large ears
- Correct ears that stick out, bringing them closer to the head
- Reshape ears when desired
- Make the ears more symmetric
Dr. Rodwell’s Approach to Otoplasty
Ear surgery is highly customized for each patient based on what is required and desired. Dr. Rodwell will listen to what you hope for your ears or your child’s ears and will carefully evaluate the anatomy, letting you know what is realistic for you or your child.
Incisions can usually be hidden in ear folds or behind the ears. In the case of protruding ears, a procedure called “ear pinning” is usually performed. This involves moving the ears closer to the head.
The surgery might be done using anesthesia (always recommended for children) or by using a local anesthetic and light sedation in the office in certain cases.
What to Expect After Otoplasty
Otoplasty patients should be able to return to work or school one week after surgery with a few restrictions on strenuous activity for several more weeks. The ears will be bandaged with a headband dressing, and no ear buds can be used during the healing process. The patient must also sleep on his or her back for a period of time.
You can expect some bruising, soreness, and mild swelling for a couple of weeks, but this is well tolerated. Slightly elevating the head during rest will help to keep inflammation to a minimum.
Of course, Dr. Rodwell will monitor your progress to make sure the ears are healing properly over time.
If you are considering otoplasty in Charleston, contact Dr. Rodwell today to discuss your candidacy.