Otoplasty denotes the surgical and non-surgical procedures for correcting the deformities and defects of the pinna (external ear), and for reconstructing a defective, or deformed, or absent external ear, consequent to congenital conditions (e.g. microtia, anotia, etc.) and trauma (blunt, penetrating, or blast). The otoplastic surgeon corrects the defect or deformity by creating an external ear that is of natural proportions, contour, and appearance, usually achieved by the reshaping, the moving, and the augmenting of the cartilaginous support framework of the pinna. Moreover, the occurrence of congenital ear deformities occasionally overlaps with other medical conditions (e.g. Treacher Collins syndrome and hemifacialmicrosomia).

Otoplasty can be done at any age after the ears have reached their full size (usually after age 5) through adulthood. In some cases, the surgery is done as early as age 3. If a child is born with prominent ears and certain other ear-shape problems, splinting may successfully correct these issues if started immediately after birth.

Otoplasty

Otoplasty