Prominent ears, often referred to as bat ears or protruding ears, can cause both aesthetic concerns and psychological distress for individuals. This condition, which is often due to genetic predisposition, can be permanently corrected through a surgical procedure called otoplasty. It is recommended to perform otoplasty at an early age, typically around 4-5 years old, to mitigate any negative impacts on a child’s socialization and academic performance. The development of the ears is typically completed by the ages of 6-7, making it advisable to undergo otoplasty during the early stages of ear development.
Who is Otoplasty (Ear Pinning Surgery) Performed On?
Otoplasty can be performed on anyone who is not satisfied with the shape of their ears. Various otoplasty techniques can be used to achieve natural and satisfying results for patients bothered by issues such as large ear size and cupping (lack or weakness of antihelix and hypertrophy of conchal cartilage). The ideal time for otoplasty, especially in pre-school children, is around the age of 5. The teasing of protruding ears at school can have a significantly negative impact on children’s psychology.
What are the Causes of Protruding Ears?
Protruding ear deformity is usually caused by a genetic factor. If there are individuals with protruding ear problems in the family, this increases the likelihood of the person themselves having this issue.
Genetic factors can lead to protruding ear deformities when the ear cartilage and tissue do not develop correctly.
The genetic factors of protruding ear deformities can be more pronounced in individuals with similar conditions in other family members.
As a result, in some cases, genetic factors alone may not cause protruding ear deformities. Environmental factors, trauma, or other factors can also influence this condition.
How is the Surgery Performed?
Protruding ear surgery should be performed by a plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgery specialist. The surgery is generally carried out under local anesthesia. This process takes approximately 1-2 hours.
During the protruding ear surgery, some medications are administered to ensure the comfort of the individual. Options include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia.
During the procedure, the surgeon first makes an incision to access the ear cartilage. Then, the ear cartilage is reshaped and repositioned. Once the procedure is completed, the ears are wrapped with bandages or a headband.
Surgical techniques are used to correct protruding ears, create or enhance folds, and reduce enlarged cartilage. Incisions for protruding ear surgery (Otoplasty) are usually made behind the ear.
If an incision needs to be made in the front of the ear, they are made within the folds to conceal them. Non-absorbable stitches are used to create and secure the newly shaped cartilage in place.