Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping)

Procedure: Set prominent ears back closer to the head, or reduce the size of large ears. Most
often done on children between the ages of 4 and 14 years. (Occasionally covered by insurance.)
Length: 2 to 3 hours.
Anesthesia: Young children: usually general. Older children or adults: general or local, with sedation.
In/Outpatient: Usually outpatient.
Side Effects: Temporary throbbing, aching, swelling, redness, numbness.
Risks: Infection of cartilage. Excessive scarring. Blood clot that may need to be drained.
Mismatched or artificial- looking ears. Recurrence of the protrusion, requiring repeat surgery.
Recovery: Back to work or school: 5 to 7 days. Strenuous activity, contact sports: 1 to 2 months.
Duration of Results: Usually permanent