Otoplasty is the surgical reconstruction of the ears. It may be cosmetic in the sense that people or children who have "lop ear deformity" or failure in the development of the upper portion of the upper ear may undergo otoplasty to correct this. Some who thinks that they have big ears, or wants to reshape the cartilage in the ears turn to otoplasty. An injury due to trauma or accident that results in ear deformity is a reconstructive aspect of otopalsty.

Surgically speaking, otoplasty may involve the adding, reshaping, and taking out structural elements in the cartilage of the ear. A plastic surgeon, an EENT specialist, and a maxillo oral surgeon may perform this technique. Most of the otoplastic cases are done because of people's displeasure in the shape of their ears.

This surgery is commonly done under general anesthesia. This is where a doctor makes use of a mixture of gases in order to put the patient in a deep sleep. Prior to surgery, the patient is not to eat six hours before and aspirin must not be taken a week before.

Like any other surgery, risks and complications are involved in otoplasty. Among them are; infection, bleeding, temporary or permanent numbness in the ear, narrowing of the ear canal and non-satisfaction on the outcome of the surgery. The latter can be corrected through secondary surgery. Strenuous activity is not permitted to weeks after the surgery.

After otoplasty, you can expect significant improvement. Ultimately, the result depends on physical and anatomical factors. Plus, the craftsmanship and skills of the surgeon plays a strong part for the final result.