Why do people bother to have cosmetic ear surgery? There may be a variation in the definition of beauty among various cultures, but a common standard is shared by many: balance and symmetry of facial features. The shape and size of your ear influences the overall symmetry of your face. A simple reshaping and sculpting of these appendages can result in a dramatic improvement in your appearance.
What is Ear Surgery?
Ear surgery or “ear pinning” is also referred to as Otoplasty in medical speak. It is classified as a cosmetic procedure for the reshaping of the ears by either reducing their size or sculpting them to achieve a better and balanced form.
The patients are sedated during the cosmetic ear surgery procedures. Adults are usually subjected to local anesthesia which affects only a selected area while children are typically placed under general anesthesia.
After sedation, the surgeon then creates an incision at the back of the ear in order to expose the ear cartilage. The cartilage is sculpted according to the desired shape and excess skin is then removed before covering the cartilage by stitching back the skin.
Who are the Right Candidates?
Cosmetic ear surgery is usually performed on individuals with ears that are overly large or extend too far from the head and those with earlobes that are stretched or uneven. This procedure can also be classified as reconstructive surgery for those who have deformed ears due to traumatic injuries, congenital deformity, or birth defects such as Microtia – a condition of causing an underdeveloped outer ear.
This surgical procedure can be performed on a patient as early as four (4) years of age because at this stage the ears are already fully developed.
What are the Risks Involved?
Cosmetic ear surgery has earned the reputation for being one of the safest surgical procedures. However, one should still be wary of infection and blood clots, as well as, the rare possibility of hearing impairment. Overcorrection is also another risk, so make sure to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon to avoid this risk.