Otoplasty at the University of Ottawa
Protruding ears can affect children, teenagers and adults alike. Ear surgery (otoplasty) can reduce the prominence of the ears and address a range of concerns such as size, placement, shape and symmetry for a pleasing cosmetic outcome. The ears must be fully formed (after age 6) before they can be corrected with surgery. During an in depth consultation, the patient’s health and medical history will be reviewed to ascertain their surgical candidacy. Aesthetic objectives will also be discussed in order to create an ideal treatment plan. To address protrusion, excess skin and cartilage may be removed and sutures applied to pin the ears back. In the case where folds are missing, cartilage and skin tissue can be reshaped to produce an ideal form. Otoplasty incisions are often placed behind the ears or along folds to conceal scars. Patients under the care of plastic surgeons at the University of Ottawa will be informed on what to expect pre, during and post operation to ensure their comfort, safety and optimal recovery.