If you have ears that protrude or your ear size or shape makes you feel self-conscious, Dr. Manuel Peña can help you by expertly reshape your ears with otoplasty. Also referred to as ear pinning, otoplasty is a surgical cosmetic procedure that uses cartilage reshaping techniques to create a more aesthetically pleasing ear contour.
Many of Dr. Peña’s ear pinning patients are thrilled with the dramatic results of this procedure, even the patients who request subtle changes feel that the changes have a very positive effect on their self-confidence and body image.
Dr. Peña can perform ear shaping surgery on patients of all ages, including children. Otoplasty is most often performed on children of at least 8 years of age. These children often have congenital ear malformations, many times from birth. As a child grows, an unusual ear shape may become more distinct. For many of our otoplasty patients, dealing with the teasing and stares can be damaging and have lasting effects on self-image.
Ear shaping surgery can reduce the size of very large ears, reshape the ears, bring the ears closer to the head (pinning or set back) and overall provide a more pleasing shape and facial appearance. An understanding of the artistic shape and position of the ear by Dr Peña assures that “over-pinning” or plastering the ear too close to the head will be avoided.
What is the Otoplasty Procedure?
Dr. Manuel Peña advises his patients that ear shaping surgery is performed in an outpatient surgical facility and generally takes 1 to 2 hours depending upon the extent of the surgery. The overall steps are as follows:
- The ear is numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Incisions are made behind the ears.
- The cartilage is manipulated and reshaped to correct protruding, asymmetry, and other issues.
- Skin sutures are used to hold the new shape and the ears are bandaged. The sutures are permanent and hold the cartilage in its new shape. The sutures in the back of the ear are the dissolving type and will not require removal.
After the bandages are removed, they are replaced with a headband that is worn for a at least a week and then several weeks longer at night to help the healing process and achieve optimal results.
If you are interested in ear shaping (pinning), Dr. Peña and his Naples plastic surgery team are a very wise choice. Dr. Peña spent years helping children in Guatemala, Brazil, and Mexico with his otoplasty skills. He also developed a special technique, which involves using a needle to sculpt ear cartilage. His innovative technique received acclaim because it results in less swelling, a faster healing time, and avoids trauma to surrounding skin.
If you are looking for expert ear shaping or pinning surgery, schedule your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Manuel Peña today. We look forward to welcoming you to Peña Plastic Surgery in Naples, FL where our team is excited to help you look and feel your best.
