Ear Pinning Surgery
Ear pinning surgery, or otoplasty, reshapes the ears to a less conspicuous location closer to the head. Although typically performed in children between the ages of 4-14 years, otoplasty can be performed in people of any age. The surgery is usually performed through an incision in the back of the ear allowing Dr. Tarola to remove a piece of cartilage and/or place permanent sutures pulling the ear back. The scar in the back of the ear fades with time becoming nearly invisible.
A tight-fitting compression dressing will be placed on the ears following surgery and removed the next day at which time showering is permitted. At that point, soft gauze pads are placed over the ears and a headband is worn most of the day for several weeks and then in the privacy of home for an additional few weeks. Doctor Tarola will review the details of the procedure and postoperative recovery course during your consultation.
Preparation
Once you schedule your ear pinning procedure with Dr. Tarola, you will be given a procedure-specific surgical packet, which includes medications to avoid before your procedure, postoperative instructions, and information on what to expect in the weeks and months following your procedure. Doctor Tarola and Tarola Plastic Surgery will also provide you with all of your prescriptions so that they may be filled in advance of the procedure day.
The Procedure
Otoplasty is usually done as an outpatient at Tarola Plastic Surgery. On the day of your procedure, you will arrive early to the surgery center to speak with your board certified anesthesiologist and be prepared for surgery. Doctor Tarola only performs surgeries at fully accredited surgery centers. The procedure will be performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation both for your comfort and to provide Dr. Tarola with the ideal conditions to perform your surgery in order to achieve optimal results. When you awake, you will be sore but kept comfortable in the recovery room. Typically, showering and shampooing is allowed after 24 hours.
Recovery
Strict adherence to Dr. Tarola’s postoperative instructions is critical to your result. You can expect swelling for the first couple of weeks. Dr. Tarola will review your postoperative instruction to hasten your recovery and ensure an excellent result.
