Correcting Prominent Ears
We all have insecurities pertaining to our bodies that we’d love to change. A common concern for individuals of all ages and ethnicities are patients who have very prominent ears. An individual may have noticeably pronounced ears because of folds in the ears that never developed or because of folds that are too large, pushing the ear outwards. Fortunately, board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Adibfar’s extensive successful experience in correcting prominent ears has led to numerous happy clients both young and old who no longer feel ashamed and distraught over having pronounced ears. Let’s take a closer look at how board-certified surgeon Dr. Adibfar addresses these concerns and gives patients the ears they long for with a corrective procedure known as otoplasty!
Before we get into the procedure, we need to examine why many individuals are born or develop prominent ears. There are typically two main reasons why a patient may have ears they feel protrude too much. The first is due to a fold in the outer ear—called the antihelical fold—that never formed. When this antihelical fold does not exist, the ear tends to stick outwards. The second reason may be due to a fold closer to the inside of the ear called the conchal bowl. This fold may have grown too large, leaving the ear to rotate outwards away from the side of the head. Board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Adibfar’s comprehensive knowledge of human biology and anatomy has allowed for him to easily address the concerns of these patients longing for a solution to their pronounced ears. To complete the procedure successfully it requires incredible attention to detail as well as an accurate diagnosis of each patient’s unique situation.
Dr. Adibfar can perform this corrective procedure under local or general anesthesia. Typically, an incision is made at the back of the ear to allow Dr. Adibfar access to ear cartilage. From there he is able to use several techniques to mold the ear’s cartilage and reshape the folds in the ear, securing them with sutures. In some cases, Dr. Adibfar may also need to use tissue from the opposite ear to make them both look more symmetrical. He can also use this incision to rotate and secure the ear closer to the side of the head. Dr. Adibfar can carefully recreate any missing folds in the ear while repositioning the angle of the ear. Depending on the patient, Dr. Adibfar may utilize multiple techniques in order to address more than one concern causing the ears to unnaturally protrude.
The surgery may last approximately up to 1.5 hours depending on the patient’s case and age. After the procedure, Dr. Adibfar places a dressing or bandage around the head and over the ears to secure their position and make sure they are protected while healing over the next 4-5 days. Patients are typically asked to keep a headband on overnight for 6 weeks as the ears continue to repair and reach full recovery. The recovery process is relatively minor and short, with patients reporting little pain or discomfort.
If you or someone close to you has always been subconscious over having prominent ears, then perhaps otoplasty is the procedure for you! When performed by an accredited board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon like Dr. Adibfar, results are favourable and patients are relieved to be able to more confidently socialize and be themselves!
Click here to learn more or to book a consultation with one of Toronto’s best board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeons, Dr. Adibfar.