What is otoplasty?

Otoplasty, or ear surgery, corrects the shape, position or size of your ears for a more natural look and balance to your face. It's a common treatment for ear defects from birth or injury. Our otoplasty program is an out-patient procedure led by board-certified plastic surgeons in Chambersburg, Ephrata, Lebanon and York.

Who is a candidate for ear surgery?

While otoplasty is a great option for kids and adults who need ear reconstruction, you do need to meet certain criteria.

Children need to be:

• healthy
• without life-threatening illnesses
• without untreated chronic ear infections
• old enough to have stable ear cartilage
• cooperative and able to communicate

Teens and adults need to be:

• healthy
• without life-threatening illnesses or medical conditions that can impair healing
• realistic about their goals for ear surgery

What to expect when getting otoplasty

Before ear surgery

• You'll have a consultation to craft a personalized plan for your surgery and recovery.
• You'll need lab testing or a medical evaluation.
• You may need to take medications or adjust your current medications.
• If you smoke, you'll need to stop.
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements that can increase bleeding.
• Plan for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first night.

During ear surgery

• The procedure is out-patient and usually takes one to three hours.
• Depending on the details of your surgery, you may stay awake with a local numbing agent or be asleep with general anesthesia.

After ear surgery

• Your ears will be in bandages, which must stay intact.
• You'll need to keep your ears clean and supported while they heal.
• Itchiness and discomfort are normal symptoms.
• Your surgical team will give you instructions on pain medication and a follow-up appointment.
• Recovery time is usually between four and six weeks.

Benefits of ear surgery

If you or your child is struggling with an ear defect, otoplasty has a lot to offer, physically and emotionally.

• More natural and balanced look. From cosmetic changes to birth or injury reconstruction, otoplasty can give your ears the look and feel you always wanted.
• Lifelong results. Otoplasty is typically permanent, giving you or your child an entire life with natural, balanced ears.
• Self-confidence. While otoplasty only changes your physical appearance, it's absolutely a self-esteem boost, which can give you comfort and confidence in social situations.