Ear (Otoplasty) Surgery
In Portland, OR From Dr. John S. Lee M.D.
Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure used to correct prominent ears. The most common cause of prominent ears is a lack of an antehelical fold, normally present just inside the rim of the ear. A wide concha or bowl of the ear can also contribute to prominence of the ear. With aging, the ears may become enlarged or elongated by the effects of gravity and skin stretching. Dr. Lee has extensive experience with a wide range of ear conditions and is very comfortable with this delicate procedure. Men and women of all ages may benefit from prominent ear correction. By achieving a better relationship between your ears and your face, prominent ear correction can improve your appearance and increase your self-confidence.
What is the process for Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
To begin the journey you will meet with Dr. Lee for a free consult. His consult days are generally Tuesdays and Thursdays. Allow for about 40 minutes. During the consult Dr. Lee will listen to all your concerns, do a thorough examination, answer your questions and offer you his recommendations. You will also be given a written quote after the consult. If you decide to move forward with surgery his scheduling staff will find you a surgery day and then a preoperative appointment about two weeks before the surgery date where you will meet with the nurse and go over pre and post op instructions, sign consents, get prescriptions and make your final payment. Surgery will be done either on premises at our fully accredited surgery center, NW Plastic Surgery Center where you will go under IV sedation, also known as twilight anesthesia or in some cases at CSS (Center for Specialty Surgery) an outside surgery center under general anesthesia. This will be decided at your consultation at the recommendation of Dr. Lee. You will go home the same day and then come back for a two day and then a one week post op appointment. Healing and follow up will continue.
What is the cost for Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
Dr Lee does not take medical insurance for this procedure. You will be given a written quote at your consultation appointment which will include the following:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Anesthesia fees
What happens during Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty / Ear Surgery is done here at our fully accredited surgery center. The patient will be under IV sedation (also known as twilight anesthesia). The technique of otoplasty utilizes an incision on the back of the ears that is hidden from view. Through this incision the antehelical fold can be created and the height of the conchal bowl can be reduced. Nicely positioned ears are symmetrical and their rims are between 15 and 20mm from the side of the head.
After surgery the patient will be moved to the recovery room and from there can go home. The total time including procedure usually between 3 and 4 hours.
Healing time for Ear Surgery
The patient will go home with a bulky bandage that helps protect the ears, preventing swelling and bruising. The patient will need to rest and keep the head elevated for the first 48 hours. The dressing will be removed at the first pre op visit 2 days after surgery. The sutures will be removed at the second pre op visit 5 to 7 days after the surgery. The patient will need to rest 1-2 days after the surgery. Every case is individual but usually a patient can go back to work between 5 and 7 days after surgery.
