Ear Rejuvenation

Otoplasty

There are a number of procedures to make ears look more beautiful. Otoplasty is the surgical treatment for protruding ears. This is one of the few cosmetic procedures that can be performed on children. There are generally two problems with protruding ears: lack of formation of the "anti-helical fold." The other deformity is an excessively deep cup of the ear called the "conchal bowl". Otoplasty helps create or deepen the anti-helical fold. The conchal bowl can be made less shallow. Otoplasty is individualized for each patient is accomplished through a small incision that is hidden in the crease behind the ear.

Otoplasty can be performed on children as young as 6 years old. Their ears are 90% of the adult size by that age. They are also starting to socialize in school and may be subjected to teasing. So, surgery at this young age is advisable for a child who is uncomfortable with negative "ear attention." By 6 years old, children are aware of the reasons for surgery and able to participate in that decision. For children, otoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. In adults, local anesthesia with sedation is used. Otoplasty is well received by patients. It's heartwarming to see the look on a child's face when the bandages are removed 5 days following surgery and they no longer have "dumbo ears."

Unable to wear your expensive diamond stud earrings due to an enlarged hole, or a "Pac-Man" deformity? A very common condition that Dr. Pearlman often repairs is tears in the earlobe as a result of earrings that pull. These earring holes may also be elongated due to an accident. The most common culprits causing this condition are sweaters, hairbrushes and babies. Earlobes can be repaired under local anesthesia in the office. The procedure takes about 20 minutes per ear and patients often go right back to work after. Ears can be re-pierced in about 6 weeks. It's a quick and relatively painless solution to a rather unsightly and often overlooked condition.

Another reconstructive procedure that Dr. Pearlman performs is auricular reconstruction for microtia. This is a creation of a "new ear" in a child born without one or both ears. Cartilage from their own rib or a synthetic framework is used in a series of operations; The results are life-altering and very satisfying for parents and children alike.

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