Pediatric Ear Plastic Surgery Procedures

Ear molding

Because infants are not candidates for ear surgery, a nonsurgical option for treating ear anomalies, called ear molding, is also available. This technique painlessly corrects many infant ear deformities, regardless of type or severity. It’s designed to properly and permanently reshape the ear during the narrow time window when circulating maternal estrogens remain at high levels in your child. Ideally, ear molding is initiated within the first three weeks of life. However, studies have shown that molding may also be effective if started as late as 4 to 6 weeks of age. This treatment may prevent the need for future surgery in most cases, or help prevent more complicated surgery once your child is old enough.

At MedStar Health, our ear specialists offer the most advanced treatment options for children who suffer from birth defects and injury-related ear problems. We offer an array of treatment options including:

• Earlobe repair: If the earlobe is torn, ripped, stretched-out, or drooping, this simple outpatient procedure can trim the affected skin

• Ear-shaping surgery (otoplasty): Otoplasty is a common procedure that repositions the ears for a more normal appearance. Ears can be repositioned by making an incision behind the ear and then removing or folding the ear cartilage

• Microtia surgery: If your child is affected by microtia, he or she is a candidate for ear reconstruction. This is typically performed at 6 to 7 years of age and can be performed using rib cartilage or an implant placed under the skin and fascia (ear muscle).

The surgeon will examine your child’s ears and ask questions to determine if they’re a candidate for an ear procedure. It’s helpful if your child shows a willingness to cooperate so they can better follow care directions post-surgery. If surgery is recommended, you’ll discuss risks and potential complications of surgery and what will happen during surgery. You’ll receive directions on what you and your child should do prior to surgery.

Recovery from ear surgery

Patients are usually up and around within a few hours of surgery and are able to go home the same day. Your child’s head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage immediately following surgery to promote the best molding and healing. The ears may throb or ache a little for a few days, but medication can help relieve pain. Within one week, the bulky bandages will be replaced by a lighter head dressing similar to a headband. Be sure your child follows the surgeon’s directions for wearing this dressing, especially at night. Sutures usually will dissolve in about two weeks.

Any activity in which the ear might be bent should be avoided for a month or so. Children can go back to school in approximately seven days if they are careful about playground activity. You may want to ask your child’s teacher to keep an eye on your child for a few weeks.