Otoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure which is done in order to change the external appearance of an individual's ears. There are several different forms of otoplasty, including bringing the ears closer to the head or "ear pinning", reducing the overall size of large ears, or reshaping cartilage. Otoplasty is typically performed by an ENT surgeon, plastic surgeon, or maxillofacial surgeon.
The external ear, or "pinna", is made of a thin cartilage cover. Deformed ears occur when ear elements are damaged, missing, or distorted. Many otoplasties are done simply because the patient is unhappy with the shape of their ears, not due to a deformity.
Otoplasty was first developed by an Indian physician named Sushruta. Known as the "father of surgery", Sushruta started practicing cosmetic surgery circa 600 BC.
During an otoplasty, local anesthesia, sedation, and general anesthesia can be used. The procedure is typically done as an outpatient surgery and it usually takes between two to five hours to complete.
When an incision is made on one side of a cartilage piece, it leaves the elastic forces on the other side unopposed which allows the shape to change over time. Also, a small incision can be made and a needle is used to model the cartilage.
For many otoplasty surgeries, the main incision is behind the ear. When this is done, the concha bowl may be moved closer to the head.
If you're considering this cosmetic surgery procedure, the first thing that you need to do is to locate a surgeon who has a good reputation. Next, schedule an appointment and meet with them to determine if you're a good candidate for otoplasty.
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