For children, ears that stick out can be a source of teasing and embarrassment, causing unhappiness. Ear reshaping, also known as otoplasty, is a simple procedure that is normally performed on children around age 8, but can be performed on adults as well.

Most often, otoplasty is used to correct ears that stick out too far from the head, but can also be used to correct ears that have failed to develop correctly. Ear reshaping surgery is usually performed under a general anaesthetic as day surgery.

Who is a candidate for ear reshaping surgery?

• People who have ears that stick out
• People who have a very large conchal bowl (inside the ear)
• People who are not happy with the general shape of their ears
• People whose ears have a cauliflower appearance (usually through contact sport)

An otoplasty procedure usually takes between one to two hours to perform, though it may take longer if the procedure is very complicated. The method used to perform the surgery on the ear will depend on the specifics of the problem.

Though there are a number of different approaches which address this procedure, the most common one involves the reshaping or removing of some of the cartilage behind the ear. After opening the back of the ear, Dr. Tew will either remove some of the cartilage or fold it on to itself and stitch it together. Since the work is done on the back of the ear, any scars are usually faint and can be hidden in the creases.
This procedure offers dramatic, immediate results that will last a lifetime.

To request your Ear Reshaping consultation with Dr. Sawjin Tew, please call (02) 9411 2266 and speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable team.