Ear Surgery

Plastic Surgery Plastic surgery is a surgical specialty that seeks to improve physical function or to minimize disfigurement or scarring resulting from accidents, disease or birth defects. The word plastic is derived from the Greek meaning molding or giving form. Otoplasty is a form of ear surgery performed to set disproportionately large or prominent ears closer to the head.

Preoperative Considerations

A consultation with a plastic surgeon is the first step an individual should take if considering otoplasty. The patient or, in the case of a child, patients family, should discuss candidly expectations about looking and feeling better after surgery, while keeping in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection.

The surgeon will discus the variables that influence the decisions involved in otoplasty. The procedure can performed on a patient after the age of five or six when ear growth is almost complete. When disfigurement is severe, it is recommended that a child be operated on early to avoid possible emotional stress when he or she enters school.

After examining you, the surgeon will explain specific details of your case, including the surgical technique to be used, the anesthesia, where the operation will be performed and what the surgery realistically can accomplish. Other factors to consider before otoplasty, such as risk and cost, should be discussed with the surgeon at this time.

Thousands of otoplasties are performed successfully each year. Nevertheless, you should be aware of the potential risks of surgery and specific complications associated with this operation. Postoperative complications such as infection and blood clots are uncommon. Occasionally a set back ear may protrude again, necessitating a second operation. Risk of complications can be minimized by closely adhering to your surgeons advice on follow-up care.

Fees and operative facility costs of ear surgery vary widely. A recent study that surveyed member surgeons and the hospitals with which they are affiliated determined total surgical fees range from $750.00 to $3,500.00 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the operation. Additional expenses will depend upon where surgery takes place and the anesthesia used.

Since otoplasty generally is carried out on an elective basis, most insurance plans normally do not offer coverage. If surgery is deemed necessary to correct disfigurement due to improper development, the surgeon's fees and other costs may be partially or fully paid by your insurance carrier. In most cases, you may deduct the costs as a medical expense on your income tax return.

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