Otoplasty
Ear surgery, also known as otoplasty, is typically performed to set prominent ears closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears.
read more closeThe majority of patients who undergo ear surgery are between 4 and 15 years old, although an increasing number of adults also elect to have the procedure. Otoplasty can help correct large or otherwise malformed earlobes, "lop ear" (where the ear tip bends forward and down), protruding ears (formed by excessive ear cartilage), and "shell ear" (a disproportionately small ear or an ear without natural creases).
There are two common otoplasty surgical techniques. Depending on the general anatomy of the ears, excess skin in the surrounding area, amount of ear cartilage, or level of deformity in the ears, a surgeon will decide which method is best. Using the first technique, the surgeon will make an incision in an inconspicuous location on the back of the ear. Then, the ear cartilage is sculpted and positioned closer to the head for a more natural appearance. Permanent stitches may be used to help the cartilage maintain its shape and position.
Using the other technique, no cartilage is removed. Instead the skin is removed and the ear cartilage is folded back. Permanent sutures are used to help the cartilage maintain its position. The surgeon may place dissolvable stitches at the incision location, which are removed or dissolve within one week.
After ear surgery, the head is tightly wrapped in a thick bandage to help maintain the new ear position. Children must avoid rigorous activities for the first three weeks of recovery. Adult patients can typically return to normal activity within three days after surgery. Ear surgery is generally performed in an outpatient medical surgery center, hospital or physician’s office. Surgeons recommend general anesthesia for young patients and a local anesthetic combined with mild sedation for older children and adults. For specific general anesthesia surgeries, an overnight hospital stay may be required. Otherwise, patients can normally return home the same day. Surgery time is about two hours.
Ear Surgery Package – 6 days at the Cosmetic Center $2,400.00
Costs include: surgery, surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, pre and post-op appointments, customary medications, transportation to/from the airport and to/from the surgery and primary doctor’s appointments, meals and nursing assistance. Also included are: wireless Internet, private bathrooms, Direct T.V. and telephones (complimentary direct U.S. and Canada calls after 5:00 P.M), high speed computers and an in-room safe.
Airfare and taxes are not included in the packages. Ft. Lauderdale to Costa Rica airfare has never been more reasonable. Check fares at Spirit Air, as low as $160 round trip!