Otoplasty, protruding ear, with or without size reduction
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Otoplasty Common Names: Ear Pinning Surgery, Ear Reshaping Surgery
Summary
In layman's terms, otoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct protruding or oversized ears. It involves reshaping the cartilage of the ear to create a more natural appearance and help the ears lie closer to the head.
Purpose
Otoplasty addresses protruding ears, which can be congenital (present from birth) or develop as a child grows. The goal is to provide a more balanced facial appearance, improve self-esteem, and alleviate any social or psychological distress associated with the appearance of the ears.
Indications
- Ears that protrude more than 2 centimeters from the head
- Oversized ears (macrotia)
- Asymmetry of the ears
- Dissatisfaction with the shape or contour of the ears
Preparation
- Pre-procedure fasting may be required if general anesthesia will be used.
- The patient may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.
- Preoperative consultations may include physical examinations and possibly photographic documentation of the ears.
- Patients should arrange for transportation home post-surgery due to anesthesia effects.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: Administered either locally (numbing only the ear area) or generally (putting the patient to sleep).
- Incision: A small incision is made usually behind the ear to access the cartilage.
- Reshaping: Cartilage is reshaped or repositioned to achieve the desired contour and closer alignment to the head.
- Removal of Excess Tissue: If reducing size, excess skin and cartilage are removed.
- Closing Incision: The incision is closed with sutures that may be either absorbable or non-absorbable.
- Dressing: A bandage or head wrap is applied to maintain the new position during initial healing.
Tools: Surgical scalpel, cartilage scoring or suturing instruments, sterile dressings. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's needs and surgeon’s recommendation.
Duration
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Setting
Otoplasty is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital’s surgical center.
Personnel
- Plastic Surgeon or ENT Surgeon
- Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)
- Surgical Nurse
- Operating Room Technicians
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma (blood collection under the skin)
- Unfavorable scarring or asymmetry
- Changes in skin sensation
- Allergic reactions to anesthesia
- Recurrence of ear protrusion
Benefits
- Enhanced facial symmetry and aesthetic appearance
- Improved self-esteem and psychological well-being
- Results can be seen immediately after healing starts, with full benefits apparent within a few weeks to months.
Recovery
- Patients may experience mild pain or discomfort, manageable with prescribed pain medications.
- A headband is usually worn for a few weeks, especially during sleep, to support the new ear position.
- Stitches typically dissolve or are removed within a week.
- Physical activities should be limited to avoid trauma to the ears for about 4-6 weeks.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and outcomes.
Alternatives
- Non-surgical otoplasty (ear molding or splinting) for infants
- Accepting ear appearance without intervention
Pros and Cons of Alternatives
- Non-Surgical: Less invasive, ideal for infants but not effective for older children or adults.
- Acceptance: No medical risks or costs, but may not address psychological or social impacts for those distressed by their ear appearance.
Patient Experience
- During the procedure: Depending on the type of anesthesia, patients may be awake but not feel pain or be asleep without awareness of the procedure.
- After the procedure: Some discomfort, swelling, and minor bruising are normal and should subside within a couple of weeks. Confidence and comfort with appearance often improve significantly once healing is complete.
Pain management includes prescribed medications and keeping the head elevated to minimize swelling. Comfort measures such as soft dressings and protective headbands support healing and new ear contours.