There are a number of problems that can occur in the development of the ear which may lead to the need for corrective surgery, typically as a child but occasionally as an adult. Elective Otoplasty is typically performed at the age of 6 or 7 to allow for near complete ear growth, the development of rib cartilage that may be used as a graft to correct the ear, and the avoidance of much childhood ridicule. To learn more about Otoplasty Mobile patients should contact us at (251) 340-6600 to schedule a consultation.
Microtia
Microtia is due to underdevelopment of the ear cartilages and includes total absence of the ear.
Reconstruction requires synthetic implants or rib cartilage grafts to create the framework of the ear, coverage of the ear, reconstruction of ear lobule and tragus (the prominent cartilage in front of the ear), and elevation of the reconstructed ear from the head. The ear canal may also require reconstruction.
Cup Ears and Lop Ears
Cup ears and lop ears are characterized by a constricting band which limits the diameter of the ear and deepening the depth of the ear creating a cup-like appearance or lopping of the remaining ear. Reconstruction is highly variable depending on the severity of the ear anomaly. In cryptotia, the upper pole is buried beneath the scalp, requiring release and reconstruction.
Preoperative Considerations
Otoplasty Procedure
The operation to correct protruding ears is known as Otoplasty and is performed as an outpatient procedure either in an office operating facility or outpatient operating room with general anesthetic or local anesthesia and sedation (older children and adults). The otoplasty procedure takes between 1-½ to 3 hours. Skin is removed from behind the ear, excess conchal cartilage is removed, a series of sutures are used to recreate the normal antihelical ear fold. A second row of sutures pulls the ear back towards the side of the head. Additional sutures may be used to bring the upper ear closer to the side of the head and scoring the cartilage can help it bend. A bulky dressing is protective postoperatively. The final shape of the ear however, might not, be apparent for several weeks after that. A headband can help prevent trauma for several more weeks.
Macrotia
Technically means large ears, but prominent ears are more common and are normal size. Oversized ears can usually be treated with removal of a wedge of cartilage and skin. Prominent ears lack a normal antihelical fold, the inner ridge along the curve of the ear. This leads to widening of the angle between the ear and the skull, which may also be due to an excessive amount of conchal cartilage.
Cauliflower ear
Otohematoma is the term applied to the deformed and thick ear cartilage that occurs due to prior bleeding. Correction requires re-contouring cartilage.
Repair of Torn Earlobe
A partial or complete tear of an earlobe is common, but can be repaired in the clinic under local anesthesia with an interdigitating skin flap. Insurance does not cover split earlobe repair
A common concern among those pursuing plastic surgery is the appearance of post-surgical scarring. It is important to note that many elements of scarring are genetic, and there are some people predisposed to forming widened or thickened scars. However, there are known interventions that if followed can significantly reduce the size and visibility of the post-surgical scar.
By choosing PR Plastic Surgery for your procedure, you have already taken the first step by choosing board-certified plastic surgeons who are meticulous in their technique and wound closure. Thankfully, our patients also have the resources of the PR MedSpa and the expertise of our aestheticians to ensure the most favorable surgical outcomes.
For optimal scar treatment and healing, both Drs. Park and Rebowe, and our aestheticians highly recommend two therapies available through our MedSpa. Once cleared by your surgeon, our MedSpa staff will assist you in transitioning to these therapies.
Works as a protective barrier that seals in hydration and limits excess collagen production, the root cause of abnormal and raised scars. This treatment is offered in the form of either silicone scar cream or silicone sheeting. The silicone cream will have additional benefits to scar reduction, including moisturizer and sunscreen. The cream dries to form a medical-grade silicone barrier that is flexible and lightweight. The silicone sheets have the additional benefit of added pressure to the scar. We recommend that the silicone cream be applied twice daily, and the silicone sheets are worn daily for up to 24 hours. Silagen Silicone Treatment is usually recommended for a minimum of 2-4 weeks following suture removal, or per physician recommendation. Some patients may utilize Silagen silicone up to one year post surgery for optimal results.
Consists of two powerful devices that can reduce scars and scar tissue, the Vbeam Perfecta and the Erbium laser.
The Vbeam Perfecta Laser reduces the appearance of scars by decreasing the erythematous, or red pigment. Inflamed scar tissue has more active blood cells than normal skin and the wavelength of this device targets the red pigment specifically, reducing the inflammation and therefore scarring. Clinical studies show that 100% of scars treated with Vbeam Perfecta Laser show visible improvement.
After the Vbeam, we use the Erbium Laser to blend the transition to native skin and compliment the results. By heating the subcutaneous tissue, the laser stimulates the production of new collagen, resulting in tightened and rejuvenated skin around the scar. Not only will the scar itself fade and diminish, but the edges of the scar will more effectively blend into the surrounding skin. Laser scar therapy has proven to speed up the recovery process post-surgery.
Your surgeon and our aestheticians at the PR MedSpa will assist you in choosing the correct post-surgery scar treatment pathway for you following your surgery.
Dr. Park is an excellent doctor. He is very caring and is always checking on you after surgery. His staff is very nice and professional. I highly recommend him for your surgery. I couldn’t be any happier with my results!
— Mobile Plastic Surgery Patient
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Led by our experienced and board-certified plastic surgeons, The Park & Rebowe Clinic for Plastic Surgery brings an artful touch to your Mobile & Fairhope plastic surgery experience, ensuring you achieve your desired transformation. Schedule your consultation today and discover for yourself why The Park & Rebowe Clinic is better by design.
