Set-Back Otoplasty

Otoplasty simply means "ear surgery".  The most common form of ear surgery that Dr. Bogdan performs is a "Set-Back" otoplasty.  This procedure is performed to reduce a prominent ear — whether it be protruding from an abnormally shaped cartilage or from an overgrowth of cartilage.  Although an otoplasty procedure is most often performed at a young age, it can be performed later in life so long as the patient is healthy.  Ear growth is nearly complete by age 6, so this is typically the earliest that an otoplasty is performed.  Having the procedure done at a young age is beneficial from both a surgical and emotional standpoint.  When performing surgery at this age, the ear cartilage is very pliable and more easily shaped than later in life.  At around age 6, children become more self aware of their body image, and correction of the prominent ear helps avoid the negative self-esteem issues that can result from teasing.

If you would like more information about otoplasty surgery, click here to request a consultation with Dr. Michael Bogdan, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in plastic surgery in the Fort Worth and Dallas area.

A board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery, Dr. Bogdan provides advanced surgical skill for his patients' needs.

Surgical Techniques for Otoplasty

The surgery is rather straight forward, and the specific procedure depends on the anatomic type of ear prominence. In simple cases where the ear is just missing a normal fold, Dr. Bogdan re-creates this fold utilizing suture techniques. The scar from the surgery is hidden in the crease behind the ear. In more extreme cases of ear prominence where cartilage is larger than normal, Dr. Bogdan may remove a portion of cartilage to return the ear to normal proportions. The same surgical scar is utilized for this ear reduction surgery.

Recovery and Results

This out-patient procedure is relatively short in duration, and in appropriate patients, can be performed using only local anesthesia. In younger patients or patients who are anxious regarding surgery (who may have issues lying still), general anesthesia is preferred. The recovery is not very uncomfortable, and most of the "discomfort" is related to taking extra steps not to traumatize the healing ears. A head wrap is worn after surgery, and Dr. Bogdan will see the patient the following day. Another protective wrap is worn for several more days, and then a ski band will be worn at night to avoid bending the ears while sleeping. The patients are to avoid contact sports for several months to avoid accidentally pulling the ears forward and damaging the healing repair. The results of surgery are simple and dramatic. Patients feel much more self-confident after surgery, and this is often accompanied by a change in hair style.