Otoplasty Houston

Otoplasty, also known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure which reshapes the ears and often places them closer to the head. The procedure may be performed on children as young as five or six years of age, before they are subjected to ridicule from their peers. When performed on children, otoplasty can provide excellent benefits, removing the stigma of looking different from their friends. Otoplasty is also performed on adults who have been self-conscious of their ears all of their lives.

Dr. Vitenas performs otoplasty at the Day Surgery Center, an outpatient facility at Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital. The procedure takes one to two hours to complete and may be performed with local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Incisions are usually located in the back of the ear, though a small incision is sometimes made on the front crease of the ear. Once the incisions are made, the cartilaginous framework of the ear is reshaped and the ear is repositioned closer to the head.

The recovery after otoplasty takes about one to two weeks. Patients may experience some aching or throbbing of the ears during the first few days after surgery. Medication can be taken to help control discomfort. Swelling, redness and numbness may also occur. The stitches are removed within ten to fourteen days. Work and school can usually be resumed within a few days after surgery, though more strenuous activities will need to be postponed for four to six weeks.

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Q - What is otoplasty?

Otoplasty, more commonly known as ear surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to reshape the ears and often place the ears closer to the head.
 

Q - Who is a candidate for otoplasty?

Adults and children over the age of five with large, protruding, or mismatched ears may be good candidates for otoplasty.
 

Q-Are there any age restrictions for otoplasty?

Otoplasty may be performed on children as young as five or six years of age. In fact, the procedure can have tremendous benefits when performed on children, sparing them the ridicule and stigma often associated with large or protruding ears.

Q - What should I expect during a consultation for otoplasty?

During the consultation for otoplasty, Dr. Vitenas will go over your complete medical history, take the time to understand your goals, and answer all of your questions. You will see pre-op and post-op photos of previous otoplasty patients, and computer imaging will be used to help you visualize your own personal results. Dr. Vitenas will discuss reasonable and expected outcomes, and explain the details of the procedure including the technique, the recovery, the risks, the costs, and financing options.

Q - Where is the surgery for otoplasty performed?

Dr. Vitenas performs the surgery for otoplasty at the Day Surgery Center, an outpatient facility at Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital.

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