Plastic surgery of the ear can be performed for a variety of cosmetic reasons, but itis most commonly used to correct ear over-protrusion. Other cosmetic treatments include treating a split ear (caused by an earring pulling through), gauge ear deformity (caused by looped rings stretching the ear lobule), and prominent ear lobes.

There are also more complex reconstructive techniques to restore the shape of the ear after skin cancer resections, which Dr. Szeto performs under local anaesthesia every week.

Protruding ears are typically caused by a combination of prominent cartilage in the middle of the ear and under-curved cartilage on the ear's antihelix.

The goal of surgery for protruding ears is usually to reposition the ears so that they do not draw attention. Unlike other cosmetic procedures, where the goal is often to draw attention to an area, the goal of ear surgery is usually to draw attention AWAY from the ear, so people can focus on the face. The majority of corrections can be nicely accomplished by increasing the curvature of the cartilage with suture techniques placed behind the ear, where no one can see them. Adjunctive measures may include "scoring" the cartilage, which involves gently reshapong one side of the cartilage. This takes advantage of cartilage's proclivity to bend to the opposite side.

What to expect

Each ear surgery case is unique, as is the delicate and highly individual anatomy of the ear. Dr. Szeto will tailor a technique to precisely correct the disproportionate

features based on an analysis of the ear axis and positioning on the head, ear size,

and angle of protrusion. As all of our faces are asymmetric to some extent, the

results of ear surgery may not be completely symmetric, though the goal is to create

an ear that is as normal in structure and balance as possible.

Ear surgery can be done in either an ambulatory surgical centre or a hospital. The

decision to use anaesthesia will be based on the needs of your specific procedure as well as the patient’s and Dr. Szeto considerations.

What to Expect

Following surgery, bandages or dressings will be applied to keep the surgical site

clean, protect it from trauma, and support the ear's new position during the initial

healing process. Dr. Szeto uses a special post-operative garment to keep the ear safe

while it heals. Dr. Szeto recommends that adult patients wear the garment nearly

full time for about 10 days. Dr. Szeto typically sees his ear surgery patients one week

after surgery to check on healing. Patients will be given instructions on how to care for their ears after surgery.

Some discomfort is normal after ear surgery and can be managed with pain

medication. Under the bandages, you may experience itching. It is critical that the bandages remain in place and are not removed. Failure to do so may result in the loss of some of the correction and the need for additional surgery. As long as the ears are protected, it is possible to resume light, normal activity the day after surgery.

The results of surgery to correct protruding ears are visible almost immediately. It may take several months for the swelling to go away and the incision lines to refine and fade. Proper skin care and sun protection are essential during this time.