Plastic Surgery Journey: Ostoplasty (Ear Pinning) Recovery

Dr. Lam shows a patient of his one day after otoplasty or cosmetic ear pinning to show how minor the recovery can be. For more information, please visit www.lamfacialplastics.com.

Protuberant ears can be a devastating aesthetic deformity, especially for the maturing child subject to the ridicule of his or her peers. A simple and straightforward procedure, known in medical lingo as otoplasty, can return the ears to their natural orientation and configuration. Two principal pathologies may exist in isolation or in combination. A "lop-ear deformity" refers to the absence of an ear-cartilage fold known as the antihelix (the smaller curved, inner ridge of the ear that parallels the outer curve of the ear.) This type of deformity presents as an abnormally shaped ear that tends to flop forward. Alternatively, a "cup-ear deformity" refers to the exuberant cup-like cartilage bowl that resides near the actual ear canal that in turn makes the ear project out excessively. Surgery involves identifying the exact cosmetic problem and intervening in a targeted approach and on a timely basis. Oftentimes, ear surgery may be covered by insurance if done prior to adolescence.