subject: Otoplasty: Ear Pinning Option For Children [print this page] It is hard for children to have an obvious physical difference. Having misshapen or disproportionate ears is one thing that is incredibly difficult, as these hearing organs are in a very obvious spot. There is a procedure called otoplasty that is short and has little pain associated with recovery time. Ear pinning is best done in children as the results are usually much more satisfactory. Getting this procedure can provide a lifetime of confidence.
Kids are notorious for being mean to each other. This is made even more common if a child has a visible difference. One thing in children that is fairly common is having large or protruding ears. This is also a common thing to be made fun of for. There are many deformities of the ear. It can be limited to an disproportional sizing and can extend to a cauliflower shape or other shapes. It is not easy for a child to endure the teasing that commonly comes along with having something seriously different in his or her appearance.
Otoplasty is a type of surgery that is also known as ear pinning. The most common thing done is a literal pinning of the ears in order to make them appear closer to the head. However, it can also correct shape problems and can give a child more confidence for life.
This surgery is best done on kids, as their is little recovery time and not very much pain associated. Also, for a couple weeks after surgery, it is necessary to wear a dressing and sometimes a brace in order to keep the ears in place and to ensure proper healing. Wearing these things can be much more disruptive in an adult's life. Also, cartilage in kid's ears is much softer and is easier to manipulate than the firmer adult cartilage. Therefore it is recommended that this procedure be done after 4-6 years of age.
The procedure is done as follows: the child is placed under anesthesia and then an incision is made in the natural fold between the back of the ear and where it attaches to the head. The surgeon will then do whatever necessary. Oftentimes this involves removing cartilage and skin in order to reduce the size of the ear. Other times, if it is to correct a deeper shape problem, the surgeon will move cartilage in order to reshape the area. After the procedure is done, the surgeon will re-suture the skin on the first incision line and will then apply a pressure-bandage to the affected area.
The next steps are predominantly up to the parents. It is important to keep the dressing dry and clean. If the child is a younger one who is more likely to play with the bandages, the doctor will likely recommend a different type of bandage that is more like a headband or a brace.
The few weeks following surgery are essential to proper healing and it will be the parents' job to make sure that the steps are followed. The results in children are usually wonderful, and their confidence levels soar as they do not have to worry about having an obvious physical difference. While this method is typically considered cosmetic, the results will produce a lifetime of confidence and higher self-esteem.
by: Abigail Aaronson
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