WHAT IS OTOPLASTY?
Otoplasty is a type of surgery that changes the size, shape, or position of the ear. Different types of ear surgeries are performed depending on the individual’s needs. Most patients undergo otoplasty to reduce large, protruding ears while others may seek procedures that repair their misshapen ears due to congenital disabilities or accidents.
When the ears are fully developed, otoplasty can be performed on any patient. The ears usually reach their full size after the age of five, and thus beginning at age 5 children with prominent ears can undergo the corrective surgery.
The overall facial harmony can be disrupted when the ears have cosmetic issues. By undergoing otoplasty surgery, the ears achieve a more symmetrical and natural look that’s aligned with the rest of the face and the head.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT OTOPLASTY PROCEDURES?
There are different procedures in otoplasty ear surgery. Each one addresses a separate issue that improves the harmony and symmetry of the face by modifying the ear’s shape or size. Dr. Sedgh specializes in the following procedures:
Ear Pinning Surgery
Also known as setback otoplasty, ear pinning surgery addresses the appearance of protuberant ears by “flattening” them against the head. It can be performed on adults and children ages five and above. Since the procedure brings balance to the face and ears, ear pinning surgery can also raise the self-esteem of younger patients.
Earlobe Reduction
Also known as lobuloplasty, earlobe reduction is a procedure that reduces earlobe size. Large or droopy earlobes are usually inborn while there are cases wherein these characteristics can be acquired due to aging or through the use of big, heavy earrings. By undergoing this simple procedure, patients can have their excessively large earlobes reduced to achieve a more aesthetically-appealing and symmetrical shape that’s proportionate to their face and ears.
Earlobe Repair
Earlobe repair or reconstruction is the procedure that uses different types of surgical techniques to correct a variety of visible damages to the ear. This includes ear stretching tearing or sagging due to injuries, earring use, congenital deformities, or gauging. These irregularities may cause negative effects to the harmony and aesthetics of the face. When patients undergo this surgery, the appearance of the face achieves subtle improvements that provide them earlobes that are symmetrical to their ears and other facial features.
General Ear Surgery
Otoplasty is a general term for cosmetic or reconstructive surgery that improves the appearance of the ears. It involves various types of procedures such as reducing or increasing the size of the ears, pinning them back or reconstructing their shape. Patients can achieve natural-looking and symmetrical ears that are proportionate to the rest of their face and head by undergoing otoplasty surgery.
Expert Otoplasty By Dr. Sedgh
Before and After Photos Dr. Sedgh’s Ear Surgery Patients
OTOPLASTY: WHAT TO EXPECT
The Initial Consultation
- Interview regarding medical history
- Physical examination
- Explanation of the procedure and surgical techniques
- Discussion on a personalized surgical treatment
The Procedure
Reconstructive otoplasty is another common method which addresses cosmetic problems regarding the size or shape of the ears. To augment the patient’s ear, surgeons may use cartilage grafts from different areas of the body such as the ribs and tissue from the upper buttock area.
Otoplasty usually takes two hours or less depending on the extent of the procedure.
The Recovery Process
It is important to follow all post-op instructions and consume the prescribed medications to manage the initial side effects. Children are required to avoid any strenuous activities such as contact sports for at least one week after the surgery. For adults, patients may return to their regular daily routine within three days post-surgery.
Recovery is crucial for the overall success of an otoplasty. This is why Dr. Sedgh personally assesses and monitors all of his patients’ postoperative progress. Under his care, expect scheduled follow-up appointments during the otoplasty recovery period, beginning from the first day of post-op until a year after.
WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE DR. SEDGH?
Otoplasty, or ear reshaping surgery, requires not only technical skill but also an artistic approach to achieve natural and aesthetically pleasing results. Dr. Jacob Sedgh, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with almost two decades of specialized experience, is renowned for his expertise in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures of the head and neck. His extensive training began with a rigorous surgical internship at UCSF, followed by a prestigious residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, ranked as one of the top centers for head and neck surgery. Dr. Sedgh further honed his expertise during a fellowship at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where he trained under Dr. Fred Fedok, a leader in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
With his deep understanding of facial aesthetics, Dr. Sedgh meticulously plans each otoplasty to complement the patient’s unique features, using advanced techniques to reconstruct cartilage with precision and balance. His commitment to patient-centered care and high standards for safety make him a trusted choice for patients seeking transformative yet natural results. By choosing Dr. Sedgh, patients can be confident that their otoplasty will be performed with the utmost care, skill, and attention to detail.
When under our care, Dr. Sedgh always ensures you feel comfortable, cared for, well-informed about every aspect of your upcoming treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical. With an approach which focuses on achieving refreshed, natural-looking results, Dr. Sedgh prides himself on always acting with transparency, honesty, and the highest level of ethical treatment, from start to finish.