Otoplasty is an operation performed to ‘pin back’ protuberant or bat ears. It may be performed in childhood, frequently just prior to starting school, or in adults.
Prominent ears may be due to either an insufficient antihelical fold (see picture), an excessively deep concha, or both. Depending on the particular problem either an antihelical fold will be created or the concha will be set back and made more shallow. Frequently both conchal setback and antihelical fold creation are done concurrently.
We feel that it is very important to let the child voice his or her opinion on whether or not their ear size is troubling them. Classically, the surgery has been done when the child is between ages 6 to 7 years old. However, more recently, this timetable has been moved up to age 4, to avoid issues with peers as the child enters school age.
In recent years, we have seen a large number of adults who have elected to have surgery. The goal is to achieve a more balanced and natural look. However, complete and perfect symmetry is not possible as there are inherent differences within ear tissues. Most patients are very pleased with the results and improved appearance.