Otoplasty
Reshape the Ears with Ear Surgery
The term otoplasty refers to procedures that reshape the ears when they protrude prominently from the head. This is generally due to a congenital condition that is present from birth. Otoplasty can correct the misshapen cartilage to help the ear lie flatter against the head for a more natural, flattering appearance.
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Doctor Certifications
Dr. Angelchik was certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) in 1996 and successfully completed a rigorous recertification process in 2006 and 2016. He participates in the Maintenance of Certification program through the ABPS. He is a member in good standing of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He has also been named to Castle & Connolly’s Top Doctors in America every year since 1996.
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.
Ear surgery is a lesser-known plastic surgical procedure in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale, AZ area that can have a big impact on patients who have struggled with large and protruding ears. This surgical procedure can sometimes be referred to as ‘ear pinning’ because it uses incisions to reduce the size of the inner ear and bring it closer to the head. Otoplasty can sometimes also refer to other ear surgeries that address the earlobes, but this is not necessarily always the case.
Otoplasty Case
Otoplasty is a unique procedure because it is most commonly performed on children. This is because congenital deformities and overly-large ears usually become apparent around the time that cartilage completes its development, making some children the target of ridicule for large, protruding ears. However, many adult patients also seek out otoplasty for the same reasons. When considering otoplasty surgery for your child, it’s important that they be able to effectively communicate and understand the repercussions of the surgery, as well as consent for the procedure. Their ear cartilage should be no longer developing or changing, since this can reverse results. All candidates should be in general good health and able to undergo surgery. Dr. Angelchik will ask patients to stop smoking or being exposed to smoke for at least a few months in advance of the surgery.
Otoplasty uses a few different incision options that will depend on your unique anatomy and goals. In either case, Dr. Angelchik can successfully conceal scarring within the natural creases of the ears. These incisions include:
Behind-the-ear Incision
This incision is performed at the back of the inner ear where it meets the head. This allows for Dr. Angelchik to reduce cartilage and pull the skin behind the ear together to flatten the ear further against the head.
Inside-the-ear Incision
Sometimes, an incision within the ear can be used to effectively reduce cartilage if protrusion is not a concern. This incision is usually made within the deepest folds of the ear to hide any scarring.
Otoplasty with Dr. Angelchik
For the first week following surgery, you will be asked to wear a bulky, protective head dressing, then move to a headband for the next 12 weeks to control and protect the position of the ear. Pain medication and antibiotics will be prescribed following surgery and you can expect the swelling to resolve over the next several months. Most patients require only a few days of downtime, although you may not feel comfortable returning to public within this timeframe. Your results will continue to refine over time as your ears adjust to their new position and contours. In some cases, relapse may occur and would require some revision; however, most patients have an excellent result for the long-term after surgery.
Dr. Angelchik is a top, board certified plastic surgeon in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale, AZ area who can plan the right otoplasty procedure for your unique anatomy and goals. To schedule consultation and discuss your options, contact our office by calling or filling out our online form.
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