Understanding Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Ear surgery can improve the shape, position, and proportion of the ear, while bringing balance and symmetry to the face. It is an option for teens and adults, as well as children who are least 5 years old. Children should be cooperative, follow instructions and communicate well, and voice no objections to the surgery. Medically called otoplasty, this procedure can treat:

  • A defect in the ear structure present since birth
  • Protruding ears occurring on one or both sides of the head
  • Ears misshapen by injury
  • Unacceptable results from a previous ear surgery

Call and make an appointment

Our dedicated, friendly staff can arrange for a consultation around the busiest schedules. This first visit is very important. You should come to your appointment focused on the matter at hand with a list of your expectations and concerns, as well as unguarded openness and honesty. Being up-front with Dr. Ridha is the key to a successful and safe procedure. With your active involvement, he can help you through every step of the process in confidence. Your first visit may include:

  • A candid talk about why you are considering ear surgery and what you hope to achieve
  • An evaluation of your general health and examination of your ears, which may include photographs and taking measurements
  • Informative discussions about the benefits and risks of the procedure, the surgical facility, how to prepare for surgery, and how to recover
Ear Surgery Saratoga, NY

What can I expect?

You will go into surgery with a detailed plan created by yourself and Dr. Ridha. Surgeries are unique to every patient, but most include the following steps.

Ear surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means you need to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery. Also, someone must be with you for at least the first night following surgery.

The procedure is performed while you are sedated or under general anesthesia. Incisions are generally made on the back surface of the ear. When incisions are necessary on the front of the ear, they are made within its folds to hide them. To correct protruding ears, the antihelical fold just inside the rim of the ear is increased and the deepest concavity of the external ear, the conchal cartilage, is reduced.

Internal, non-removable sutures are used to create and secure the newly shaped cartilage. External stitches close the incision. Dr. Ridha customizes his closure techniques to each patient to ensure the stitches don’t distort the ear and cause a “pinned-back” appearance. Any surgical scars are hidden either behind the ear or in the natural creases of the ear.

Discomfort immediately following ear surgery is normal and can be controlled with pain medication. Itchiness may also occur underneath the bandages. Bandages must remain intact and not be removed. Failure to do so may result in loss of some of the correction and may require a secondary surgery.

Once Dr. Ridha removes the dressings supporting the new shape of the ear, results can be immediate. The results of more extensive ear surgery and reconstruction may appear in stages over time.

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