At the cosmetic surgery practice of Dr. Steven H Dayan, MD, our clinic is no stranger to seeing patients dissatisfied with their ears’ appearance. Some patients dislike the look of ears that stand out too far away from their head, while others are frustrated with overly large and or asymmetrical ears. Thankfully, Dr. Dayan boasts years of experience treating patients of all ages who suffer from various conditions. When someone is unhappy with the way that their ears look, especially if they are taking away from other beautiful features, our clinic is the one to call.
Thankfully, Dr. Dayan performs cosmetic ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, to correct the ears’ position, size, or shape. He can perform otoplasty for patients of all ages, including adults and children whose ears have stopped growing, usually between 5 and 6 years old. However, ear surgery can be performed for younger children who have been severely disfigured due to ear trauma or a birth abnormality.
Common Outer Ear Deformities
Growing up with ears that stand out is very difficult, and that is one of the many reasons this procedure is available for those 5 to 6 and up. However, this treatment is also for those who have not had the fortunate opportunity to undergo otoplasty at a younger age. The most common concerns regarding the ears are deformities caused by trauma but due to genetic deformities in the cartilage, which gives the ears their shape and curves. The most common genetic disadvantages include:
Hypertrophic Conchal Bowl
This condition makes the ears look too large or stick out. The inner cupped part of the ear that wraps around the ear canal, also known as the conchal bowl, is too deep and needs to be reduced, or it is not set close enough to the side of the head. Using tested techniques and advanced tools, Dr. Dayan will sculpt the cartilage through an incision made on the back of the ear. This will significantly improve the placement and appearance of the ear.
Poorly Developed Antihelical Fold
Also known as lop-ear deformity, the fold of cartilage in the upper part of the ear lacks the fold that brings the ear back toward the head. Instead, a poorly developed antihelical fold will force the ear to fold forward or stick out. This condition can quickly be fixed by curving the upper part of the ear back to create the absent fold.
Determining what type of therapy you require to correct the issue depends on several factors and can only be determined by a trained medical professional. Ear surgery delivers a natural shape to the ears while bringing balance to other facial features. Correcting even mild malformations or aesthetic concerns will profoundly positively impact a patient’s appearance and self-esteem. Whether you have lived your whole life with misshaped ears or have a child who was born with them, there is no shame in seeking help to achieve a cleaner look.
What Is Recovery Like After Otoplasty?
This particular surgery is done as an outpatient procedure where patients will be able to return home the same day wearing a light dressing around the head. No two patients are the same, so experiences vary following ear surgery.
- Discomfort: The pain is typically mild and manageable; however oral medication will be prescribed to make it a little more tolerable. Bruising and swelling are
- Swelling and bruising: Typically, the swelling and bruising are not significant and usually go away after about three days.
- Recovery Time: Each patient recovers at different rates, mainly depending on the age. Children can usually go back to school after about a week, while adults can return to work after five days.
- Bandages: Understandably, you won’t want to be wearing the gauze for too long, and luckily it only needs to be worn for about a week to help the ears heal.
*It is crucial that you follow the strict aftercare plan given to you by our medical staff to ensure that your ears heal properly and complications are avoided. Our team is always available to answer and address any questions or concerns patients/parents have
Are There Any Non-Invasive Therapies Available?
Unfortunately, there is currently no alternative option to an Otoplasty. Patients understandably want to avoid surgery at all costs, but in this particular case, the ears do require invasive treatment to be corrected. However, don’t worry; the entire staff and Dr. Steven Dayan have been performing this procedure for years, keeping the patients and their families informed and comfortable before, during, and after. The only thing you will have to focus on is seeing the incredible results that you have been waiting so long for.
Only a board-certified and talented plastic surgeon, like Dr. Dayan, will be able to properly establish who is and isn’t a candidate for otoplasty. Therefore, those who are in search of improving the appearance of their ears need to arrange for a primary consultation with one of the most trusted plastic surgeons in Chicago. He will assess the ears and discuss the objectives they want to achieve through the surgery. Once a patient is determined to be suitable, he will design a personal plan to meet the patient’s unique aesthetic desires and anatomical needs. Suitable otoplasty candidates include children, teens, and adults who:
- Have a positive self-image but are concerned with the look of their asymmetrically shaped, protruding, or overly large ears
- Boast realistic expectations
- Are more than 5 or 6 years old, with ears that have stopped growing
- Understand the risks associated with surgery
Dislike the Appearance of Your Ears? Dr. Dayan Can Help!
Your ears are one of the most critical elements of a stunning complexion. Too big or small, folded or protruded, whatever the reason may be for your diminished appearance and self-confidence, the experts at our clinic will create a brand new look that you will be proud of. Schedule your primary consultation or visit our clinic in person and see for yourself why Dr. Dayan is the best in the business and will transform your complexion.
