Does My Child Need Pediatric Otoplasty?

As a parent, nothing is more important than the health and happiness of your child. You want to ensure that your child is comfortable and confident in all aspects of life, including their appearance. One aspect of appearance that can cause insecurity and discomfort for some children is the shape and size of their ears.

For children with prominent or misshapen ears, pediatric otoplasty may be a viable option. NYC facial plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph J. Rousso, MD, FACS, discusses pediatric otoplasty, what it entails and whether it may be right for your child.

What is Pediatric Otoplasty?

Pediatric otoplasty, also known as ear pinning, is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct the shape, size or position of the ears. This procedure can be performed on children as young as 4-5 years old, as long as their ears have reached their full size and development. The goal of pediatric otoplasty is to improve the appearance of the ears, reduce their prominence, and create a more balanced and proportional look.

Non-surgical ear molding can be used on newborns to correct misshapen ears while they are still pliable. Dr. Rousso uses the EarWell advanced molding device to correct prominent ear deformities in newborns when possible.

What Does Pediatric Ear Pinning Surgery Entail?

Pediatric otoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means that your child will be asleep and won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Dr. Rousso makes an incision behind the ear and reshapes the cartilage to create a more natural-looking contour. He may also remove excess skin or tissue to reduce the size of the ear. The entire procedure usually takes about 2-3 hours, and your child will need to stay in the hospital for a few hours after the procedure to be monitored.

Is Pediatric Otoplasty Right for My Child?

Pediatric otoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for children with prominent or misshapen ears. However, it is important to note that the decision to undergo this procedure should be made in consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Rousso. He will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s ears and determine whether they are good candidates for the procedure. He will also discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have.

In general, children who are good candidates for pediatric otoplasty are those who:

• Are in good overall health
• Have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure
• Are able to follow postoperative instructions
• Are emotionally mature enough to understand the procedure and its potential risks and benefits

It is important to note that pediatric otoplasty is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. You will need to discuss the cost of the procedure with Dr. Rousso and determine whether you can afford it.

New York Prominent Ear Deformity Correction

For children with prominent or misshapen ears, pediatric otoplasty can be a life-changing procedure. It can improve their self-confidence and help them feel more comfortable in their own skin. However, it is important to approach this decision with care. If you are considering pediatric otoplasty for your child, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Joseph J. Rousso, MD, FACS, in NYC to discuss the procedure in more detail.