“Bat Ear” Correction: Otoplasty

Ears that stick out, especially on children, can cause a person to have insecurities about their facial appearance. The nickname “Dumbo” is often adopted by bullies on the playground towards children with large, protruding ears. Having prominent ears that resemble a bat’s ears can instigate teasing from a child’s peers and affect his or her self-esteem. Many adults find they are embarrassed because of their big ears, and this can influence them personally and professionally. Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a procedure designed to place the ears into a more attractive, natural position. Both children and adults can undergo ear surgery to correct large, protruding ears.

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty is the surgical correction of large, protruding ears by reshaping the contours of the ears or pinning back the ears to reduce their prominence. An incision is made behind the ear, and the cartilage is accessed, manipulated, and set back using sutures. After a week, the sutures are removed, and a headband is worn to support and hold the ears in place. Overall, otoplasty will create ears that are closer to the head and no longer pop out causing the look of bat-like ears. Patients can achieve ears that are flattering to their entire facial anatomy.

At What Age Can My Child Undergo Otoplasty?

The ears begin growing during embryological development and continue to grow until about age six. Once the ears have fully developed, a child may undergo otoplasty. It is important that a child is old enough for otoplasty and also understands and wants to undergo the procedure. Dr Zoumaras can discuss with a parent to help them to decide if their child is ready for surgery.

Adult Otoplasty Candidates

Many children undergo ear surgery at a young age; however, some adults struggle with “bat ears” for years and don’t decide to correct the problem until later in their lives. It is never too late for adults to regain their confidence by undergoing ear surgery. The best patients are those who are in good health, do not have any serious medical conditions, are non-smokers, and have realistic expectations for the procedure.

If you are interested in correcting the appearance of large, protruding ears, schedule your consultation with Dr Zoumaras today. Contact us by calling 02 9327 1700 or by filling out our online contact form.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.