Olympia Area Ear Surgery

Many people never give the appearance of their ears a second thought. Since the ears are not central to the face, it is easy to consider them purely functional. However, people who have prominent or misshapen ears understand that they can be a source of embarrassment and social discomfort, especially for children.

Dr. Christopher Chung performs ear surgery - or otoplasty - for Vancouver and Olympia, Washington cosmetic surgery patients who are self-conscious about the appearance of their ears. This time-tested and safe procedure can be performed for children or adults to bring the ears closer to the head so that they no longer stick out, or to re-shape ears that are large or protruding.

If you would like to learn more about ear surgery, click here to request a complimentary consultation with Dr. Chung, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial procedures at his Kelso, Washington area plastic surgery practice.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty refers to cosmetic surgery of the ear. The most common type is ear pinning, which brings the ears closer to the head so that they no longer protrude. Otoplasty also can correct ears that bend or curl, either due to heredity or trauma. This is one of the only cosmetic surgery procedures that is regularly performed for children, since those with prominent ears are often subject to ridicule and embarrassment.

How is Ear Surgery Performed?

This relatively simple and straightforward procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery at our Olympia area plastic surgery center. We typically use intravenous sedation with local anesthesia for otoplasty, but in some cases general anesthesia may be recommended. Depending on the patient's condition, Dr. Chung will recommend the most appropriate approach to surgery. In the case of ear pinning, small sections of cartilage are removed or reshaped from behind the ears, allowing the ears to be pulled closer to the head. The incisions are made in the natural folds behind the ears, so visible scarring should be minimal.

Recovery and Results

After surgery (which typically lasts about 1 hour), the ears will be bandaged to hold them close to the head and to promote healing. These bandages will need to remain in place for 5 to 7 days and kept dry. The patient will need to take it easy for a few days, and sleep with the head elevated. Pain or discomfort should be manageable with either prescription or over the counter medications. Dr. Chung will monitor recovery closely, and will advise you as to when you (or your child) may return to normal activities.