Otoplasty is frequently performed on children before they enter school to avoid taunts. It is usually an outpatient procedure. It can be performed at a cosmetic surgery facility, outpatient surgical center, or hospital. Otoplasty can be performed with local anesthesia and sedation, or with general anesthesia.
During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision at the back of your ear. The cartilage may be folded or a piece of cartilage may be removed to allow the ear to be repositioned closer to the head. Sutures are used to close the incision and the ear is heavily bandaged.
You will receive pain medication. The ear bandages are removed after several days and replaced with a lighter dressing that is worn for up to three weeks. Most people are able to resume their regular activities in about a week. You should avoid contact activities, such as certain sports, for a month or so. Otoplasty may leave a small scar behind the ear, but most people are thrilled with the results.