Am I a Good Candidate for Ear Surgery?
It’s common for people to be unsatisfied with some aspect of their appearance. However, some aesthetic imperfections are tougher to conceal than others. For instance, if you’re not happy with the appearance or size of your ears, there aren’t a lot of great ways to hide them. In some cases, long hair can be used to cover the ears, but this is a short-term solution that is not available for everyone. Ears that are too large, uneven, misshapen, or protruding can be a significant source of frustration and embarrassment.
For patients who are self-conscious about their ears and seek a change, ear surgery can be a great solution. Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, can help improve the shape, size, and/or position of the ears to provide a rejuvenated, more balanced facial appearance. However, ear surgery may not be right for everyone. To help prospective patients, I have outlined what makes someone a good candidate for ear surgery.
Unlike most plastic surgery procedures, since most people’s ears reach their full size and shape at an early age, ear surgery can be performed on children as young as five years of age. In some cases, it can be better to perform the procedure while the patient is young since a child’s cartilage is more flexible.
Ear surgery can help people who were born with overly large or small ears. It can also be useful for those who are dissatisfied with the shape of their ears including ears that stick out prominently. Additionally, the procedure can be highly beneficial for patients with ears that are disproportionate to their other features or oddly placed. Those with ears that have been affected by birth defects or damaged by injury can also be good candidates.
Ear surgery patients should be in good physical and mental health. They should maintain a positive attitude and realistic expectations going into their surgery. Lastly, patients considering ear surgery should be nonsmokers, as nicotine can lead to complications during surgery and recovery.
It’s wonderful to witness the often-profound boost in confidence and self-esteem that many patients experience after undergoing ear surgery. If you are interested in learning more about ear surgery, the first step is scheduling an appointment with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation. At that time, we will discuss your aesthetic concerns, as well as your medical history and goals to help determine if ear surgery is right for you. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott, today. Don’t forget that you can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for additional plastic surgery news, videos, updates, and more.