Ear surgery can help patients achieve both aesthetic and auditory goals. Ear surgery can improve the shape, position and proportion of your ears.
Spartanburg-Greer ENT & Allergy’s dedicated providers will work with you to determine which type of ear surgery will work best for your unique needs. Our goal is to not only enhance the shape and appearance of your ears, but also improve your hearing abilities and self-confidence.
When Is Ear Surgery Recommended?
Common reasons for ear surgery include:
- Repairing microtia, a congenital condition that results in a small, malformed or absent outer ear. Surgery can involve constructing an ear from the patient’s own tissue or creating a prosthetic ear.
- Changing the shape, position or size of the ears with otoplasty.
- Repairing ear defects resulting from cancer surgery, burns, lacerations or torn piercings.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
Reconstructive Ear Surgery
Reconstructive ear surgery is usually performed by a plastic surgeon in stages over several months.
- Stage One: Healthy cartilage is removed from the patient’s ribs and placed in a pouch of skin beneath the damaged ear.
- Stage Two: A new earlobe is created.
- Stage Three: A skin graft is added to the earlobe and cartilage frame, which is lifted from the side of the head.
- Stage Four: An ear canal is created from the center of the cartilage frame.
Otoplasty
This procedure typically takes around two hours. Incisions are made on the back of the ears or within the ear’s inner creases. Excess cartilage and skin are removed, and the cartilage is folded and stitched into place.
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
Your recovery process will depend on the extent of the surgery. Initially, your ears will be bandaged for several days, and upon removal, they may appear red and swollen.
While you recover, you should avoid:
- Applying pressure to your ears.
- Sleeping on your side.
At Spartanburg-Greer ENT & Allergy, we recognize that the decision to undergo ear surgery is a significant one, and we’re dedicated to partnering with you through every step of the process. We’ll create a personalized plan for surgery focused on addressing your specific needs and concerns.
Call Spartanburg-Greer ENT & Allergy for more information or to schedule an appointment.