Our appearance is greatly influenced by the position and size of our ears. If one or both of the ears project too far from the sides of our heads, it may not interfere with hearing, but can be visually distracting. While only 1-2% of the population suffers from this condition, it can take an enormous toll on self esteem.
How Does the Condition Develop?
Overly prominent ears are a genetic condition that typically develops before birth. They’re the result of cartilage growing either improperly or in insufficient amounts while the ears form in the womb. When this occurs one or both of a person’s ears will grow to the side, protruding from the head. The folds of the ears may also become deformed. It’s possible for abnormal folds to correct themselves with time, but, unfortunately, this doesn’t always occur and the problem usually remains unresolved throughout an individual’s life.
Some children (30%) are born with normal ears that begin to change in size and shape after they’re three months old. If the ear is repeatedly bent over during activities like breast feeding, its soft cartilage can become permanently deformed.The Ear Pinning ProcedureEar pinning (or pinnaplasty) involves surgically shifting the ears back to their proper position. Dr. Fialkov accomplishes this by creating a small incision behind the ear that allows him to see and manipulate the cartilage folds. From there he is able to either remove or restructure the cartilage. Depending on the approach taken, the ears will be improved by using either internal sutures that change the contour of the ears and bring them against the side of the head or by weakening the cartilage so it can be reshaped. In most cases the restructured cartilage is kept in its modified place with internal sutures. Once this is done, the operating site is closed with an organic glue or tiny dissolvable stitches. A tiny, hard-to-see scar results.Incision-less PinnaplastySome patients may be candidates for a special form of ear pinning called incision-less pinnaplasty. Dr. Fialkov makes entry incisions with small needles and stitches that breach the skin without leaving behind any scars. The incision-less technique leads to the same type of aesthetic results as the traditional approach.
The entire ear pinning surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. Head dressings are used to apply pressure to the ears as they heal. These dressings are applied tightly in order to ward off blood clots and keep the ears in place.
Patients generally don’t experience much pain after their treatment, but will be prescribed medication to help manage any discomfort. They may also be given antibiotics to help guard against infection. Most people can go home shortly after their surgery.
