New York City, Manhattan, New York
Ears that are too prominent, or stick out too far from the head, are the most common ear irregularities requiring otoplasty. There are a number of other irregularities that can cause problems as well. Some of these are discussed below.
- Drooping ears or “lop ear” – The upper portion of the ear droops. This is easily rectified by making an incision behind the ear, cutting out the excess cartilage, and reshaping the ear into a normal-appearing ear.
- Ears too close to the head – This condition is the exact opposite of prominent ears, and is extremely rare. This irregularity can be rectified by placing a piece of cartilage or silicone underneath the skin and behind the ear to push the ear forward into a normal position.
- Upper ears too close to the scalp – These are drooping ears in reverse. While this condition is fairly rare, it does look odd and unappealing, and may prevent you from being able to wear glasses. Dr. Bellin will cut around the outline of the ear, and then let the ear fall forward into a normal position. A skin graft may be applied afterward to provide coverage over the back of the ear.
- Pointed ears – This unusual condition used to be called “satyr ears.” Mr. Spock of Star Trek fame had ears that resemble this condition. This ear condition can be very awkward. Fortunately, the irregularity may be easily fixed by cutting off the excess skin and cartilage to produce an attractive, normal-looking ear.
- Big ears – Having large ears in relation to the rest of your head is another annoying problem. However, they can be reduced by making several complicated multidirectional incisions through your entire ear. Dr. Bellin will cut out selected portions of your ears, and sculpt the remaining tissue into a smaller ear which better fits your head. The outcome of this complex procedure is usually acceptable, but it does leave external scars.
- Small ears – There is currently no surgical procedure which will make your ears bigger without making them look deformed.
- Large earlobes – Large earlobes can be reduced by using similar techniques to the ones described in making your big ears smaller.
- Torn earlobes – This happens after an earring is suddenly or gradually ripped through the bottom of your pierced earlobe. Your split earlobe can be repaired once your rip has healed, by suturing together the exposed edges of your earlobe. This can be performed without disturbing your earring hole, so you won’t have to re-pierce your ear.
If you suffer from any of the aforementioned ear irregularities, you may be a candidate for otoplasty. Please contact us today to arrange a free consultation.